February 03, (THEWILL) – The Democratic Republic of Congo are through to the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations after a convincing 3-1 win over Guinea on Friday night. In an entertaining quarter-final in Abidjan, Guinea took an early lead through a Mohamed Bayo penalty. However, goals from Chancel Mbemba and Yoane Wissa in both halves turned the game in Congo’s favour before the hour mark. The game was put beyond doubt late on when Arthur Masuaku curled in a stunning free-kick.
Congo, managed by Sebastien Desabre, have now recorded four straight victories over the National Elephants of Guinea. This equals their best ever performance at AFCON, having previously reached the semi-finals in 2015. Guinea boss, Kaba Diawara, would have hoped for better after his side dramatically beat rivals, Equatorial Guinea, in the last 16.
The game started at a fierce tempo at the Al Salam Stadium. Guinea were given a contentious penalty when Mbemba was adjudged to have pushed Bayo in the box. The Guinean striker scored from the spot to give his side an early advantage. However, Congo reacted quickly through Mbemba’s equaliser just seven minutes later.
Congo carried that momentum into the second half and were rewarded when Wissa scored a penalty just after the hour mark. The spot-kick was given when substitute, Silas, was brought down by Julian Jeanvier. Congo then put the result beyond doubt when Masuaku scored a sublime free-kick with eight minutes left.
In the end, Congo had too much quality on the day. They will now face either Ivory Coast or Mali in Wednesday’s semi-final, while Guinea bow out at the quarter-finals once again.
About the Author
Jude Obafemi is a versatile senior Correspondent at THEWILL Newspapers, excelling in sourcing, researching, and delivering sports news stories for both print and digital publications.
