Haller goal knocks out DR Congo, takes Ivory Coast into AFCON 2024 final

Haller Heroics Send Ivory Coast Roaring into AFCON Final!

The Ebimpe Olympic Stadium erupted in a cacophony of noise on Wednesday night as Sébastien Haller's second-half strike propelled Ivory Coast to a 1-0 victory over DR Congo and a place in the Africa Cup of Nations final. It was a tense and tightly contested affair, but the hosts ultimately found a way through, setting up a mouthwatering clash with Nigeria on Sunday.

 

Haller, making his first start of the tournament after recovering from injury, proved to be the match-winner. On 65 minutes, the Borussia Dortmund striker met Max-Alain Gradel's cross with a perfectly timed volley that looped over the despairing dive of DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi and nestled into the net. The goal sparked wild celebrations on the pitch and in the stands, as the Ivorians took a giant leap towards their first AFCON title on home soil since 1992.

 

DR Congo started brightly, nearly taking the lead in the ninth minute when Cedric Bakambu bundled the ball home. However, the goal was rightly disallowed for a foul on goalkeeper Yahia Fofana. Despite the setback, the Congolese continued to play with attacking intent, with Meschak Elia and Yoane Wissa causing problems down the flanks. But the Ivory Coast defense, marshalled by the experienced Eric Bailly, stood firm.

The hosts had their chances too, with Franck Kessie rattling the post with a thunderous drive in the first half. Haller himself spurned a couple of opportunities before finally finding the breakthrough. After the goal, the Ivorians controlled the game, managing the tempo and keeping DR Congo at bay.

 

This victory marks a remarkable turnaround for Ivory Coast, who only progressed from the group stage as one of the best third-placed teams. They then defied the odds to beat Algeria in the quarter-finals, and now stand one step away from glory. Their fairytale run has captured the imagination of the nation, and the Ebimpe Olympic Stadium will be a cauldron of noise come Sunday as they seek to end their long wait for continental glory.

For DR Congo, the defeat ends their dream of a first AFCON title since 1974. They can be proud of their performance, but ultimately fell short against a determined Ivory Coast side.

 

The stage is now set for an epic final between Ivory Coast and Nigeria, two footballing giants with a long history of rivalry. It promises to be a thrilling encounter, and one that will captivate millions across Africa and beyond.