An historic sight of wild celebrations characterized the city of Bandundu in Kwilu Province following the DR Congo national team’s victory over Egypt on penalties to qualify for the quarter-finals at the ongoing 2023 TotalEnergies Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory.
The Leopards put an heroic performance to beat the seven-time African champions 8-7 on penalties after a 1-1 draw in normal plus extra time.
The population of Bandundu went onto the streets and gathered at Wamba Avenue to celebrate the Leopards’ victory which was uncertain for many supporters.
Plates turned into cymbals for clink sounds, shrill whistles and clothes flew into the air as a joyous and festive atmosphere caught the streets of Bandundu.
“We feel an indescribable joy in the town of Bandundu, province of Kwilu. It is 1:30 in the morning, but we are still outside, we have not slept. The Leopards have filled us with happiness. We understand. This is neither their fault nor ours, but from the Bible which says that these Egyptians that you see, you will never see them again. As we have eliminated them today, we will never see them again.
The Leopards will go to the final. For the match against Guinea, just as we beat the Egyptians, we will beat them with ease. May the Congolese remain in joy, because our destination is the final,” said a female supporter at the Wamba Square.
The festivities went on until the early hours of Monday as Bandundu population sang to show solidarity for the Leopards.
The Leopards will now face Guinea in the quarter-finals on Friday, 2nd February at the Olympique Stadium of Ebimpé in Abidjan.
