Coach of the Congo DR national football team, Sebastien Desabre, has stated that his squad is highly motivated as they prepare for their crucial upcoming World Cup qualifier.
Desabre, who has been in charge for three and a half years, highlighted the long journey his team has undertaken to reach this stage.
According to a post obtained from FIFA’s website on Monday, Desabre said, “This final will be our 13th match since our qualifying campaign began. It’s definitely been a long road to get here, and we’ve worked our way through every stage,” he said.
Reflecting on the team’s journey, he added, “I can’t point to just one moment. It’s about everything we’ve been through together – the highs and the lows. Those experiences have made us stronger and more resilient, and they’ve led us to this point. After all the hard work the players and staff have put in over the last three years, they’ve thoroughly earned it.”
Desabre praised his squad’s balance, saying, “Defensive solidity is the bedrock of our side, but our attacking numbers have also been good in recent matches. In the Congo DR, we’re lucky enough to have talented players who ply their trade at top clubs. Above all, everyone has really bought into the project we’ve been building together.”
Looking ahead to their next opponents, the coach emphasized confidence and preparation:
“We’re not afraid of anyone. We’re going to give it our all. As a minimum, we need to replicate the kind of performance we delivered against Nigeria, a match which Congo DR won 4-3 on penalties following a 1-1 draw after extra time. We know all about Jamaica and New Caledonia. We’ve been scouting them, and we’ll also have the chance to watch them play over in Mexico on 26 March. But for now, we’re focusing on our own players.”
Desabre urged his players to remain grounded despite the stakes. “We all want to go to the World Cup, but we can’t let our emotions or the magnitude of the occasion get the better of us. What matters is playing well, keeping our feet on the ground, and giving everything we’ve got out on the pitch. We need to focus and perform well on the day to get the job done and make Congo proud.”
He concluded by acknowledging the passionate support of Congolese fans: “The Congolese are passionate about football, and some of them are going through difficult times. I know the whole nation will come to a standstill on 31 March so people can watch the match. We hope we can give our fans the lift they deserve.
Punch