In a match that initially lacked spark, Guinea and Equatorial Guinea served up a thrilling second half, ultimately culminating in Guinea’s dramatic qualification for the quarterfinals.Despite a dull and goalless first half, the intensity ramped up significantly after the break, keeping spectators gripped until the final whistle.The turning point arrived in the 54th minute when Federico Bikoro received a red card, reducing Equatorial Guinea to ten men. This provided Guinea with the impetus they needed to push forward and capitalize on their numerical advantage.Absolute madness by Federico Bikoro. He deserves that red card #AFCON2023— Jeff Kinyanjui (@_JeffKinyanjui) January 28, 2024 In the 65th minute, the match took another dramatic turn as Guinea was awarded a penalty after Ivan Salvador was fouled in the box by Sekou Sylla. However, Emilio Nsue, the tournament’s top scorer, failed to convert from the spot, adding further drama to the proceedings.As the clock ticked down, Guinea continued to press forward, with Equatorial Guinea valiantly defending with ten men. In a clear cautionary measure, Sekou Sylla was substituted in the 78th minute, with Francis Kamono taking his place.AFCON 2023: What’s the secret to Emilio Nsue López’s longevity?##NAJAVA_MECA_7828935##Just when it seemed the match would end in a stalemate, Guinea found their breakthrough in the dying moments. In the 98th minute, Mohamed Bayo rose highest to deliver a perfect header, sending Guinea into jubilation and sealing their place in the quarterfinals.With this dramatic victory, Guinea, a team that qualified as one of the four best third-placed teams, progresses to the next stage of the tournament. They now await their opponent, either Egypt or DR Congo, in what promises to be another thrilling encounter in the quarterfinals.Monday20:00: (2.00) Cape Verde (3.20) Mauritania (4.20)23:00: (2.35) Senegal (3.10) Ivory Coast (3.30)Tuesday20:00: (2.30) Mali (3.10) Burkina Faso (3.40)23:00: (1.62) Morocco (3.50) S.Africa (6.50)
