AFCON 2023 round of 16: Egypt vs. DR Congo – Thrilling match, extra time, and dramatic penalty shootout
The fourth match of the round of 16 of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) took place on Sunday, featuring Egypt against the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC). In a highly balanced encounter, the winner had to be determined in extra time.
While the Congolese Leopards started strongly with an early chance by Elia Meschack (3′), the match quickly equalized. In the final moments of the first half, Arthur Masuaku took advantage of a lapse by the Egyptians to set up a goal for Elia Meschack (0-1, 37′).
However, Egypt equalized before halftime through a penalty converted by Moustapha Mohamed after a foul by Dylan Batubinsika (1-1, 45’+1).
The second half saw both teams creating opportunities but failing to score. In the final 15 minutes of regulation time, Egypt increased the pressure but couldn’t break through.
With the score still level after 90 minutes, the match went into extra time. The DRC gained a numerical advantage when Egyptian defender Mohamed Hamdy received a second yellow card and was sent off (96′).
Despite being in control and pressing the Egyptian half, the Leopards couldn’t find the net.
As the game remained tied after 120 minutes, it proceeded to the decisive penalty shootout.
In the penalty shootout, both teams started well, but Moustapha Mohamed, who had scored in regular time, missed his penalty.
The shootout continued successfully until the ninth Egyptian shooter. Gabaski, known for his penalty-saving prowess, missed his own penalty.
In contrast, Lionel Mpassi converted his penalty, sending the DRC to the quarter-finals. The Leopards will face Guinea in the next round.
