DRC squeeze by Guinea to reach CHAN final

249267_heroaThe Democratic Republic of Congo edged Guinea 5-4 on penalties in a very entertaining encounter in Kigali yesterday to proceed to the Chan 2016 final on February 7 at Amahoro Stadium.

The 2009 Chan champions came into this fixture as favourites but the Sylis held them to a goalless draw in regulation time to force the game into extra time.

Congolese striker Jonathan Bolingi Mpangi got to the end of a great cross to net a brilliant header in the 101st minute past Guinean goalkeeper Abdoul Aziz Keita who had no chance to stop his shot.

Guinea, who have been relentless throughout the tournament, sought an equaliser and in the 120th minute, at the stroke of full time, Ibrahima Sory Sankhon slotted home past Congolese goalkeeper Ley Matampi to force penalties.

Congolese captain Joel Kimwaki gave his side the lead when he sent Keita the wrong way before Ibrahima Sory Bangoura sent his shot over the cross bar.

Keita then dived to the right to save Ricky Tulenge’s effort before Sankhon equalised to bring the score to 1-1.

Miche Mika’s shot hit the woodwork but bounced on the inside to give the Congolese a 2-1 lead but Aboubacar Leo Camara’s fine finish brought the score to 2-2.

Bolingi then sent his low shot past Keita before Mohamed Thiam’s sent a powerless attempt that Matampi picked up easily as the Leopards led 3-2.

Keita once again dived to punch away Joyce Lomalisa’s shot before Aboubacar Kile Bangoura sent a powerful low shot past Matampi who had dived to the right direction to equalise 3-3.

Doxa Gikanji converted his effort before Daouda Camara equalised for Guinea 4-4 to go into sudden death.

Meshack Elia scored with a fine finish to give the Leopards a 5-4 lead and it was Matampi’s save of Mohamed Youla’s penalty that handed Florent Ibenge’s side victory. DRC will face the winner between Ivory Coast and Mali who face off on Thursday at Kigali Regional Stadium in Nyamirambo. — Supersport.

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