AFCON 2023: Haller’s late strike propels Ivory Coast into final

Ivory Coast secured their spot in the AFCON 2023 final by triumphing over DR Congo with a 1-0 victory. The decisive moment unfolded after the hour mark, with Sébastien Haller seizing the opportunity to convert a fumbled recovery on a cross from Max-Alain Gradel. As the host country, Ivory Coast displayed dominance on the field, setting the stage for a thrilling final against Nigeria on Sunday at the same venue.

One poignant image from the encounter was the solemn gesture of the Congolese players placing their hands over their mouths and an index finger on their temples during the national anthem of the DRC.

This symbolic act aimed to draw attention to the devastating impact of the war in the east of the country. Having conveyed their message, Sébastien Desabre’s men were determined to secure victory in honor of the victims of North Kivu.

The early minutes of the match were marked by a disallowed goal from Cédric Bakambu, who found the net following a corner but had the effort invalidated due to a prior foul on goalkeeper Yahia Fofana.

Ivory Coast responded with vigor, led by Simon Adingra, the hero from their previous clash against Mali. Adingra forced the opposition defense into conceding a corner and then headed narrowly above the goal.

Despite DR Congo’s offensive intent, with attempts from Gaël Kakuta and Yoane Wissa, Ivory Coast showcased resilience. Sébastien Haller, a constant threat, delivered a returned scissors kick and a narrowly missed header. Franck Kessié struck the post at the end of a intricate play, raising the level of intensity.

The breakthrough finally came when Max Gradel’s cross found Haller, whose initial mishit rebounded into a fatal shot past the DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi in the 65th minute.

This goal secured Ivory Coast’s passage to the final, where they will face Nigeria in a highly anticipated showdown for the prestigious crown. The Elephants will seek their third AFCON title in what promises to be a captivating encounter on Sunday.