In a thrilling AFCON match tonight, Côte d’Ivoire secured a victory over DR Congo, propelling them to the final, slated for Sunday.
The host country broke the deadlock in the second half, with star striker Sebastien Haller netting a crucial goal in the 65th minute.
Despite Côte d’Ivoire’s dominant performance, characterized by impressive ball possession and fluid passing, DR Congo kept the pressure on with relentless counterattacks, testing the Ivorian defense.
In a surprising twist, neither Côte d’Ivoire nor DR Congo were initially favored to advance this far in the tournament. Many anticipated teams like Morocco, Egypt, Senegal, and Ghana to contend for the continental trophy, yet they exited unexpectedly.
Saturday will see South Africa and DR Congo battling it out for third place. Meanwhile, Nigeria, fresh from a penalty shootout victory over South Africa, will clash with Côte d’Ivoire in the highly anticipated final on Sunday.
Although Nigeria emerged victorious against Côte d’Ivoire in the group stage with a 1-0 win, the Ivorian team has consistently defied expectations and staged remarkable comebacks, fueled by the fervent support of their home crowd. As they aim to make their mark on Ivorian and African football, Nigeria should anticipate facing a resolute and confident Côte d’Ivoire squad led by Haller and his teammates.
