Ivory Coast beat DR Congo to set up final with Nigeria at AFCON 2023
Iory Coast clinched a hard-earned 1-0 triumph over DR Congo in the second semifinal showdown of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations, setting the stage for an exhilarating final against Nigeria on Sunday.
Sebastien Haller secured the winning goal in the 65th minute, volleying the ball past DR Congo’s goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi after it bounced off the ground.
READ MORE :Nigeria advance to AFCON 2023 final after defeating South Africa on penalties
Despite numerous opportunities, including a missed header and a wide lob, Haller’s decisive strike proved sufficient to secure victory for the host nation.
DR Congo struggled to create significant scoring chances, with Meschack Elia’s volley going wide and Simon Banza’s attempt sailing over the bar during injury time.
The win signals a turnaround for Ivory Coast, which experienced a turbulent journey to the semifinals, including the dismissal of coach Jean-Louis Gasset and relying on late goals to surpass Senegal and Mali.
Interim manager Emerse Fae now has the chance to guide the Elephants to their third continental title, following previous triumphs in 1992 and 2015.
Nigeria, who overcame South Africa 4-2 on penalties following a 1-1 draw in the first semifinal, will pose a formidable challenge for Ivory Coast in the final encounter.
The Super Eagles boast three AFCON titles, setting the stage for an enthralling showdown with the Elephants.
The final showdown between Ivory Coast and Nigeria is scheduled for Sunday at 20:00 GMT in Abidjan, promising a captivating clash between two African football giants.
