Semi-final: Cote d'Ivoire v DR Congo: How the Leopards got there

DR Congo are having a great TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations, Côte d'Ivoire 2023. And like their opponent in the last four, nothing has been easy so far.

In a tough group with Morocco, Tanzania, and Zambia, Sébastien Desabre's men only managed to advance thanks to their resilience in the three matches of Group F. 

Trailing each time against Zambia and then against Morocco, the Leopards came back to secure a draw (1-1).

Yoan Wissa scored against the Chipolopolo and Silas Katompa against the Atlas Lions. A final goalless draw against Tanzania opened the doors to the round of 16 for them.

In this knockout stage, DR Congo showed aggression against Egypt's Pharaohs, who were seeking another continental triumph. 

Mostafa Mohamed responded to Meschak Elia's goal. But unable to separate themselves after extra time (1-1), it was in the penalty shootout that the Leopards found a hero in goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. 

In the quarter-finals, despite conceding a goal to Mohamed Bayo, the goalkeeper remained formidable. 

Guinea couldn't withstand the claws of Chancel Mbemba, Yoan Wissa, and Arthur Masuaku, allowing DR Congo to win 3-1.

Back in the semi-finals of the AFCON since 2015, DR Congo doesn't want to stop there. Continuing the dream of a third continental title is the main objective for Cédric Bakambu's teammates.