A late winner from Mohamed Bayo sent Guinea into the quarter-final of the 2023 African Cup of Nations, eliminating giant killers Equatorial Guinea.
After a good run in the group stage of the tournament, Equatorial Guinea started the game on low note, allowing Guinea to put them under pressure.
After 20 minutes Guinea looked more like a side that could score at any given time, but the game remained without a shot on target.
Referee Omar Abdulkadir Artan blew the half-time whistle both teams going into the break without having a shot on target.
The second half started with both sides looking to get something on the scoresheet. 10 minutes into the second half Equatorial Guinea was reduced to 10-man after Federico Bikoro was sent off.
Equatorial Guinea midfielder Iban Salvador was brought down inside the box in the 66th minute but referee continued with the game. However, the VAR called referee Omar for a check and the Somalian pointed into the spot.
AFCON’s leading goal scorer Emilio Nsue stepped up but he only hit the woodwork, and the score remained 0-0, while there were still no shots on target after 75 minutes gone.
Guinea kept on knocking and Mohamed Bayo placed a good header but Awono dealt with it, with only seven minutes to play.
But Guinea snatched it right at the death. Ibrahim Diakite played a lovely cross and Bayo headed home at the near post, which resulted in wild emotions on both sides, with Guinea celebrating while EQ. Guinea were left in tears.
Guinea advance to the quarter-finals, where they will face a winner between Egypt and DR Congo.
