Sebastien Haller emerged as the hero for Ivory Coast, securing a vital 1-0 victory over DR Congo in a tense semi-final clash in Abidjan.
The win kept Ivory Coast’s dream of clinching their first AFCON title on home soil alive, propelling them one step closer to being crowned Kings of the continent for the third time.
Despite facing elimination threats in the group stage, Ivory Coast showcased one of their most assured performances of the tournament when it mattered the most.
DR Congo, appearing in their first semi-final since 2015, made an early attempt to assert dominance as Cedric Bakambu appeared to have scored, only for the goal to be disallowed due to a foul on goalkeeper Yahia Fofana. This setback did not deter Ivory Coast, who steadily grew in confidence as the first half progressed.
As halftime approached, Ivory Coast came close to breaking the deadlock with a series of late chances. Sebastien Haller narrowly missed a free header, while Franck Kessie struck the post with a powerful shot from the edge of the area. Despite their dominance, the hosts were unable to capitalize on these opportunities, leaving the score level at the interval.
The second half proved to be a tightly contested affair, with both teams vying for control of the match. It was Ivory Coast, however, who managed to seize the decisive moment. In the 65th minute, Borussia Dortmund forward Sebastien Haller unleashed a volley that deflected off the turf before looping over goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi and into the net, sending the home crowd into raptures.
Despite a spirited effort from DR Congo to find an equalizer, Ivory Coast’s resolute defense held firm, denying their opponents any clear-cut chances. With their hopes of claiming a first AFCON title since 1974 dashed, DR Congo’s tournament journey came to an end, leaving Ivory Coast to celebrate their hard-fought victory.
With the win secured, Ivory Coast now turn their attention to the final showdown against Nigeria, set to take place in Abidjan on Sunday.
The stage is set for a thrilling encounter as Ivory Coast seeks to etch their name in the annals of African football history by lifting the coveted AFCON trophy on home soil. As anticipation builds for the final, fans eagerly await what promises to be a momentous clash between two footballing giants.
