CAF U17 AFCON: Côte d’Ivoire beat DR Congo with stoppage-time penalty

Cote d’Ivoire U17 secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over DR Congo U17 thanks to Harafat Diabate’s stoppage-time penalty in a tense Group B encounter at the TotalEnergies CAF U-17 Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2026.

The match appeared destined for a goalless draw until the closing moments when the hosts were awarded a penalty deep into added time. Diabate held his nerve to convert from the spot in the 90+2 minute, sparking wild celebrations among the Ivorian players and supporters.

The contest was hard-fought throughout, with both sides struggling to create clear-cut chances in a cagey affair. DR Congo made an early tactical change in the 23rd minute, bringing on John Elika for Sylvio Mabanza, while Cote d’Ivoire adjusted in the eighth minute with Hassan Kone replacing Hamza Yao.

Late drama ensued as Gueu Tiekoman received a yellow card in the 90+3 minute, followed by multiple substitutions in stoppage time as both teams made desperate changes.

Cote d’Ivoire lead Group B with six points from two matches, while DR Congo remain on zero points after consecutive defeats.

Cote d’Ivoire face Uganda in their final group game, while DR Congo take on Cameroon seeking their first points.