DR Congo Aim to Replicate Performance Against Nigeria in World Cup Qualifier

Head coach of the DR Congo national football team, Sébastien Desabre, says his players are highly motivated ahead of a crucial upcoming World Cup qualifying encounter, stressing that the team must reproduce the level of performance they previously delivered against Nigeria national football team.

Desabre, who has managed the Congolese side for more than three years, reflected on the lengthy journey his team has taken since the beginning of the qualification campaign.

According to comments published on the website of FIFA, the coach noted that the upcoming match will represent the team’s 13th fixture since the start of the qualifying process.

“This final will be our 13th match since the beginning of the campaign,” Desabre said. “It has been a long journey and we have fought through every stage to reach this point.”

The French tactician said the team’s progress has been shaped by both difficult moments and successes experienced throughout the campaign.

“It is hard to point to one single moment,” he said. “It is everything we have been through together — the highs and the lows. Those experiences have helped make the group stronger and more resilient.”

Desabre praised the balance within his squad, highlighting the team’s defensive organisation while also acknowledging improvements in attack.

“Our defensive solidity is the foundation of the team, but our attacking output has also been encouraging in recent matches,” he explained. “We are fortunate to have talented players competing at top clubs, and everyone has fully embraced the project we are building.”

Looking ahead to the next stage of the competition, the coach said the team must maintain confidence while remaining focused.

“We are not afraid of any opponent,” he said. “At the very least, we must reproduce the performance we delivered against Nigeria.”

The previous meeting between both sides ended 1–1 after extra time before DR Congo secured victory in the penalty shootout.

Desabre added that his technical crew has already begun monitoring other potential opponents, including Jamaica and New Caledonia, but insisted that the immediate priority remains preparing his own players.

The coach also urged his squad to remain calm despite the high stakes attached to the match.

“Everyone wants to reach the World Cup, but emotions must not take over,” he said. “The most important thing is to stay focused, play well and give everything on the pitch.”

He concluded by acknowledging the passion of Congolese supporters and expressed hope that the team can deliver a performance that will bring pride to the nation.