Sebastien Haller’s goal helped the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations hosts Ivory Coast upset DR Congo and advance to the championship match against Nigeria.
The only goal of a cagey contest in Abidjan was scored in the 65th minute when Haller’s shot bounced up over Leopards goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi and into the ground.
Just before halftime, the Borussia Dortmund striker had an opportunity to take the lead with an unmarked header, and Haller nearly doubled the lead with a lob that sailed just wide.
DR Congo did not look to be able to pull off a late equalizer, despite Simon Banza blasting far over in added time and Meschack Elia sending a volley wide of the left-hand upright.
After barely making it past the group stage, Ivory Coast fired manager Jean-Louis Gasset and required late goals against Mali and Senegal to advance to the round of four.
But now that the Elephants are playing Nigeria, the three-time winners, in Abidjan on Sunday (20:00 GMT), interim manager Emerse Fae has the opportunity to lead the team to a third continental crown, adding to their victories in 1992 and 2015.
After a thrilling 1-1 draw in Bouake, the Super Eagles defeated South Africa 4-2 on penalties to advance to the championship match earlier on Wednesday.
