![AFCON 2023: DR Congo 3-1 Guinea, The Leopards QUALIFY For AFCON Semifinals [VIDEO HIGHLIGHTS]](https://i0.wp.com/lcsoccerhub.com/wp-content/uploads/2024/02/Screenshot_20240203-071142.jpg?fit=705%2C404&ssl=1)
The Democratic Republic of Congo have booked their place in 2023 AFCON semifinals following a convincing 3-1 comeback win over Guinea, LCSoccerHub Reports.
The Leopards breeze pass the National Elephants with another superlative performance to book their ticket for the last four of the tournament.
Things got off to a frantic start as both sides made concerted efforts to dominate proceedings. DR Congo were deadlier than their opponents on the offensives but were struggling under a more dominant display by the Guineans.
The stage was set for a cracker after Guinea won a penalty in the 19th minute. Bayo converted it perfectly firing Guinea in front after their dominant sail from the start.
Seven minutes later, the lead was short-lived as DR Congo came through with an equaliser from Mbemba.
With the scoreline tied at 1-1 draw, the first half ended squares as both sides could not find the back of the net again before the break.
Guinea continued on their more dominant performance in the second half but could not make anything happen. Meanwhile, DR Congo were breaking with pacey and prolific counters when having the ball.
It was still tied at the hour-mark before the Leopards bagged a lifeline chance to take the lead after they won a penalty.
Wissa came up clutch for the Congolese, converting the spot-kick to make it 2-1 for the Leopards. Guinea doubled efforts to level the score but met the brink wall defense of the Leopards.
Despite a solid defensive showing by the Congolese, it was still slippery at their end as Guinea mounted intense pressure in search of an equaliser with a few minutes left to play.
Against the run of play, Masuaku got another goal for DR Congo in the 82nd. The former West Ham star scored a stunning freekick in what was a big blow to Guinea’s comeback hopes.
At the blast of the final whistle, it ended 3-1 for DR Congo who progress to the semi-finals of the competition knocking out Guinea. They will play the winner between tournament hosts Ivory Coast and Mali for a place in the final.
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