Wednesday

DR Congo vs Guinea 4pm

Thursday

Ivory Coast vs Mali 4pm

Ahead of Wednesday’s semi-final clash with the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC), Guinea head coach Mohamed Kanfory Bangoura has warned that his side is determined to win the 2016 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) title.

The tournament debutant booked their place in the last four of Africa’s second biggest international football tournament after defeating Zambia 5-4 on penalty shoot-outs after the game had ended goalless in regular time on Sunday at Umuganda stadium in Rubavu District.

"I am very happy after qualifying for the semi-final in this prestigious tournament. When we arrived here, we were not given any chance to proceed to this level as there were already favourites in place, but we have surprised both friends and foes with our total football,” explained Bangoura.

He noted that despite having been in a very tough group, they kept their faith and worked hard for the 90 minutes in every game, showcasing some classy football at the same time.

He added, "I have told my players the celebrations should not last for long since we have another big hurdle when we face DR Congo, who are in superb form. I hope we shall give them a run for their money—at this stage, we harbor dreams of reaching the final.”

Following a barren 90 minutes, the game went into extra time, but no one managed to get on the score sheet, and the two teams had to be separated by the much-dreaded post-mach spot kicks.

Guinea scored through Ibrahima Bangoura, Mohamed Thiam, Issiaga Kamara, Ibrahima Soumah and goalkeeper Abdol Aziz Keita, who was named man of the match. Douda Kamara had his penalty saved by Zambia keeper, while Ibrahim Sankhin shot his over the crossbar.

On the other hand, Zambia’s veteran Christopher Katongo saw his kick saved by Guinea goalkeeper Keita, but Buchizya Mfuma, Spencer Sautu, Cleotus Chama and Adrian Chama scored theirs, while Stephen Kabamba and Daut Musekwa failed to hit the target.

Guinea stunned tournament favourites Nigeria 1-0 in their final group stage game to advance to the knockout round from Group C, behind Tunisia.

Ivory Coast cruised to the last four after crashing West African neighbours and archrivals, Cameroon 3-0 in their quarter-final clash played at Huye Stadium on Saturday.

editorial@newtimes.co.rw