AFCON 2023: DR Congo Vs SA game preview

By Ngome Michael

The Democratic Republic of Congo and South Africa after emerging losers in their respective 2023 AFCON semi final matches to host Côte D’Ivoire and Nigeria go head to head in the third place classification game on Saturday February 10 at the Felix Houphouët Boigny Stadium.

Consolation for either Bafana Bafana who placed Nigeria on the edge before losing 4-2 on penalties or the Leopards that fell to a rather unexpected Sébastien Haller finish which extends their 50-year wait for another continental title.

Fatigue is certainly going to be a factor in this encounter especially for South Africa who played extra 30minutes in their previous two matches against Cape Verde and the Super Eagles.

The tanks might be running empty for Hugo Bross’ men who found a way to penetrate Nigeria’s watertight backline in the first half but failed to maximize their chances.

Mokoena leveled in 90th minute from the spot and had his added time set-piece parried by Nwabali to Mudau who could have won it for South Africa but his effort went off target.

Ruing Wednesday’s opportunity to feature in their first final since 1996 must be taken off the cards for the South African as they now seek a third place finish.

Cedric Bakambu had an early ball into Ivorian net canceled for a foul on Yahia Fofana with Yoane Wissa blasting his shot from range against the keeper before Haller’s 65th-mimute looped finish beat Mpasi condemned DR Congo to a 1-0 defeat.

DRC has now lost their last three semis in 1998, 2015 and 2023 and head into the third place fixture poised to end their tournament positively.

Desabre’s team has won just one of six matches played at this tournament, qualifying from the group stage with 3points, beat Egypt on penalty and their lone victory over Guinea. They will require a bit luck in order to recreate 2015 exploits.

Grant Kekana is the lone player expected to miss this tie for South Africa for his red card against Nigeria. However, Teboho Mokoena and Percy Tau might be absent after failing to report for last training session.

Gael Kakuta returned to the side against the Elephants but only lasted 45 minutes before going off for Theo Bongonda whi could start alongside regulars, Mbemba, Gedeon Kalulu, Arthur Masuaku and Samuel Moutoussamy.