After a goalless 90 minutes and extra time against a hard fighting Zambia team at the Umuganda Stadium in Rubavu, Guinea eventually won the quarter final match 5-4 on penalty kicks.
Keita sent his low shot past Zambia’s goalkeeper Jacob Banda as his teammates run to carry him shoulder high in celebration.
“This is a sweet win because beating Zambia was not that easy,” said Keita.
Zambia’s veteran skipper Christopher Katongo had earlier scored in the second half of the game, but the goal was cancelled for off-side.
Katongo who led Zambia to the 2012 Africa Nations Cup triumph had his first penalty saved.
Guinea had Ibrahima Bangoura, Mohamed Thiam, Issiaga Camara, Ibrahima Sory Soumah and Keita score their penalty kicks, while Ibrahima Sory Sankhon and Mohamed Youla missed.
The Zambians had Buchizya Mfune, Spencer Sautu, Clatous Chota Chama and Adrian Chama score their penalty kicks.
Zambian coach George Lwandamina said he was not very disappointed because penalties can go either way.
“I think we played a good Guinea side,” added the coach.
Guinea will now face Democratic Republic of Congo at the semi final stage, while Mali who shocked Tunisia at the quarter final stage take on Cote d’Ivoire. Enditem
Source: Xinhua
