Congo eliminated from Africa Cup of Nations after dramatic penalty shootout loss to Rwanda
Congo’s hopes of qualifying for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations have come to an abrupt end after a heartbreaking penalty shootout defeat against Rwanda on Saturday. Despite taking a commanding 2-0 lead in the first leg, the Red Devils were unable to hold onto their advantage in the return fixture played in Kigali, crashing out on penalties 4-3 following a 2-2 aggregate draw.
The second leg saw Congo’s coach Claude Leroy’s side start strongly, matching Rwanda’s efforts during a tightly contested first half. However, the hosts came out firing after the break and scored twice in quick succession to level the tie. Michel Ndahinduka opened the scoring in the 52nd minute, before Meddie Kagere doubled the advantage just four minutes later, sending the match into a tense penalty shootout.
In front of a passionate home crowd, Rwanda held their nerve to convert four penalties, edging past Congo who managed three successful spot-kicks. The defeat ends Congo’s Africa Cup of Nations participation drought, having last featured in the tournament in 2000.
This outcome is a significant setback for the Red Devils, who were favourites to progress following their first-leg performance. The Rwandan victory marks a memorable triumph for the hosts, who now advance to the group stage of the continental competition.
With the 2015 AFCON fast approaching, Rwanda’s qualification injects new excitement into the tournament and highlights the unpredictable nature of Africa’s premier football event.
Congo will now reflect on a missed opportunity and look ahead to rebuilding for future qualification campaigns, hoping to end their prolonged absence from African football’s biggest stage.
