Ghana advanced to the semi-finals of the 1996 African Cup of Nations in South Africa after a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Zaire, now the Democratic Republic of Congo.

The lone goal came in the 22nd minute when Tony Yeboah rose to the occasion, sending a precise finish past the Congolese goalkeeper.

The Black Stars’ starting eleven featured Samuel Johnson, Samuel Kuffour, Abedi Pele Ayew, Mallam Yahaya, Tony Yeboah, Felix Aboagye, Joseph Addo, Simon Addo, Charles Akunnor, Frank Amankwah, and Afo Dodoo.

Substitutions included Joachim Yaw Acheampong replacing Mallam Yahaya in the 51st minute, Ibrahim Tanko coming on for Abedi Pele Ayew in the 82nd, and Kwame Ayew for Felix Aboagye in the 89th.

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The match, however, was far from smooth.

DR Congo’s players unleashed relentless aggression with hard tackles, dangerous sliding challenges, and even stepping on Abedi Pele’s head during one incident.

The physicality reached such an extreme that the referees issued a red card to one of the Congolese players for violent conduct.

Despite the bruising encounters and relentless pressure, Ghana’s Black Stars held firm, showing tactical discipline and resilience.

Yeboah’s early goal proved decisive as the team absorbed the onslaught and protected their lead.

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