In a highly anticipated showdown at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations 2023, Ivory Coast and DR Congo are poised to clash in the semi-finals at the Alassane Ouattara Olympic Stadium in Ebimpé, Abidjan.
Both teams have experienced remarkable turnarounds in their tournament journey, overcoming initial setbacks to emerge as formidable contenders. Ivory Coast’s heroic victories against Senegal and Mali in the Round of 16 and quarter-finals have revitalized their campaign, transforming them from early underdogs to serious contenders for the title.
Meanwhile, DR Congo’s Leopards, after a series of draws in the group stage, stunned the football world with a penalty shootout victory over Egypt in the round of 16, followed by a convincing win against Guinea in the quarter-finals.
However, Ivory Coast will face a significant challenge as they are without four key players—Serge Aurier, Odilon Kossounou, Oumar Diakité, and Christian Kouame—who are suspended. Coach Emerse Fae will rely on the depth of his squad and the solidarity among his players to compensate for their absence.
The upcoming clash holds historical significance as the two nations renew their rivalry in the AFCON. In their previous encounters, Ivory Coast has secured two victories and two draws against DR Congo.
With both teams eager to secure a spot in the final, the stage is set for an electrifying contest. The Ivory Coast vs. DR Congo match is scheduled to kick off on Wednesday, February 7, 2024, at 8:00 PM GMT.
