Courage, determination and performance were on display during the encounter between the Leopards of DR Congo and the Pharaohs of Egypt at the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations. In an epic and thrilling match, the Leopards managed to beat the Pharaohs and qualify for the semi-finals. The Laurent Poku stadium in San Pedro witnessed this historic victory, which was obtained during a breathtaking penalty shootout, won by the Congolese with a score of 8-7.
From the start of the match, the Pharaohs exerted strong pressure on the Leopards, dominating the counter-pressure phases. However, the Leopards showed exceptional resilience, remaining disciplined and fast. In the 37th minute, Mechack Élia scored a superb goal following a nice incursion from Wissa on the left. The Pharaohs reacted in the 45th minute by equalizing from the penalty spot thanks to Mostafa Mohamed.
In the post-match press conference, coach Sébastien Desabre spoke with pride about his team’s performance. “I always said it, we were challengers in this competition. Mentally, we have confidence, we are very united, we work together. This is what I remember today as a coach, it is the serenity that emanates from our game. We know our strengths! “, did he declare. He also highlighted the strategy put in place by the team, with a more direct and vertical game in depth.
In the second half, the Leopards continued to show their determination, but failed to score despite numerous chances. Extra time was necessary to decide between the two teams, and it was finally thanks to a last effort that the Leopards found the winning goal against the numerically diminished Pharaohs.
This victory for the Leopards puts an end to a curse more than 6 years old. Indeed, since 2017, when they played their last quarter-final against Ghana, the Leopards had not managed to reach this stage of the competition. A new era therefore begins for the Congolese team, which is now aiming for a place in the semi-finals.
The Leopards’ next challenge will be Friday February 2, where they will face the Sylis Nationals. This meeting promises to be intense and the Leopards will once again have to demonstrate courage and determination to continue to advance in this prestigious competition.
In summary, the victory of the Leopards against the Pharaohs during the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations will remain engraved in the history of Congolese football. An exceptional performance which testifies to the talent and tenacity of this team. The Leopards have proven that they are formidable competitors and that they have their place among the best teams in Africa. The appointment is made for the semi-finals, where the Leopards will try to continue their impressive run.