CHAN 2016: DR Congo book final ticket, eliminate Guinea on penalties

Debutants Guinea were on Wednesday handed a 5-4 defeat via penalties by DR Congo after a pulsating 1-1 draw at regulation time.

Guinea were looking forward to making history at the tourney, but they were dwelt a cruel blow by an ambitious DR Congo side in the first CHAN 2016 semifinal tie played at Amahoro Stadium in Kigali.

The Sylis, who have defied the odds to make it to the last four, eliminated continental giants Nigeria from the tournament before overcoming Zambia in the quarterfinals to make a surprise appearance in the semifinals.

Prior to the cracker, Guinea coach Mohamed Kanfory Bangoura said he has improved the mentality of his players and that has played a key role in helping them to make it to the semifinals.

“After the first two games, we had to improve the players’ mentality and correct every mistake we made then. Playing against DR Congo is not easy because they are a very strong team and are favourites. We respect them but today, we will have tactics to stop them,” explained Bangoura.

“We will have a defensive block and we shall improve and also rely on individual brilliance and open up when we have the ball. We are ready for the match.”

However the reverse became the case as they were overpowered by DR Congo on penalties.