Seven-time Africa Cup of Nations champions Egypt faced elimination on Sunday after losing a gripping penalty shootout 8-7 against DR Congo. The absence of injured star Mohamed Salah, who returned to Liverpool for treatment, proved crucial for Egypt.
The intense last-16 clash ended 1-1 after extra time, with Meschack Elia scoring for DR Congo and Mostafa Mohamed equalizing from a penalty for Egypt. Liverpool's Salah, injured in a group match, could only watch as DR Congo's Lionel Mpasi converted the winning penalty.
The dramatic upset sets the stage for DR Congo to face Guinea in the quarterfinals. The match was marked by controversy, including a disputed goal by Elia and a VAR-assisted penalty for Egypt.
Despite Egypt dominating possession, DR Congo emerged victorious, highlighting the unpredictable nature of the AFCON tournament in Ivory Coast.
