2015 AFCON Semi-Final: Côte d’Ivoire Edge DR Congo at Halftime
The Ivory Coast Elephants took a narrow 2-1 lead into the break against the Democratic Republic of Congo in the first semi-final of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations.
Despite a solid and ambitious display by the Congolese, it was Ivorian efficiency that made the difference in the first 45 minutes.
⚽ First-Half Highlights:
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Yaya Touré opened the scoring with a powerful 18-meter strike, giving Côte d’Ivoire an early lead and setting the tone.
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Dieumerci Mbokani responded for DR Congo from the penalty spot, leveling the score and re-igniting hopes for the Leopards.
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Just before halftime, Gervinho punished a Congolese error — a misplaced pass by Yannick Bolasie — with a clinical finish to restore the Ivorian advantage.
📝 Halftime Analysis:
While the DRC impressed with creative build-up play and attacking intent, they were made to pay for defensive errors and lapses in concentration — a recurring issue in this tournament.
With 45 minutes left and both teams pushing for a place in the final, the match remains wide open. Expect more drama, intensity, and possibly goals in the second half.