Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations match.
Ivory Coast
The home side has wasted too many strengths in the play-offs. Both games they played ended beyond regular time. Despite the fatigue, Ivory Coast seem to be favourites as they will have a huge support of the local fans. Besides, the Africa Cup of Nations has a pretty comfortable schedule. Ivory Coast had 4 days to recover after the quarter-final game.
DR Congo
The side surprisingly beat Egypt in the first play-off game on penalties. They beat Guinea 3:1 in the quarter-final game, although their opponents had a lead. Today, DR Congo will resist both Ivory Coast and their fans. Ivory Coast seem to be better in the terms of their squad, too. The head-to-head statistics prove it, as DR Congo have lost 5 out of the last 6 games.
Ivory Coast – DR Congo prediction
Ivory Coast have surprisingly reached the semi-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations they host. The side had only three points in the group stage, advancing to the play-offs from the third position. However, they beat Senegal on penalties in the first round of the play-offs and beat Mali in extra time. Now their opponent is DR Congo. Ivory Coast have scored at least two goals in the last 4 home games against this opponent.
The group stage was terrible for Ivory Coast. However, they have a chance to reach the final now. They should use it.
