In another heartbreak for Egypt at the Africa Cup of Nations, DR Congo advanced to the quarter-finals after a dramatic penalty shootout, with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi scoring the winning penalty.
The Pharaohs, who had experienced a spot-kick defeat to Senegal in the 2021 final, faced a similar fate after a 1-1 draw in regular and extra time, ultimately losing 8-7 on penalties.
Mostafa Mohamed, filling in for the injured Mohamed Salah, continued his goal-scoring form with his fourth goal in as many matches, equalizing from the spot after Meschack Elia’s opener. Egypt had to endure extra time following Mohamed Hamdy’s 97th-minute red card.
Despite Mohamed missing a penalty in the shootout and goalkeeper Mohamed Abou Gabal also faltering, DR Congo’s Mpasi remained composed, securing a place in the quarter-finals against Guinea.
The match saw early threats from Elia for DR Congo, with Egypt’s Ahmed Hegazi missing a crucial headed chance. Elia later capitalized on defensive lapses to give DR Congo the lead, but Mohamed’s penalty restored parity.
DR Congo had chances through Elia and Cedric Bakambu, while Egypt, despite dominating possession, struggled to create clear opportunities. Ahmed Sayed Zizo and Marwan Attia tested Mpasi in the second half, but neither side could find a late winner.
Egypt’s hopes suffered a setback with Hamdy’s sending-off, and despite DR Congo’s Arthur Masuaku and Samuel Moutoussamy missing chances, the shootout ended dramatically with both goalkeepers taking decisive penalties.