Desabre to build on Leopards’ AFCON experience

Despite being unable to clinch a bronze medal, Democratic Republic of Congo coach Sabastian Desabre says there are a lot of positives to take from the Leopard’s showing in the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Cote d’Ivoire 2023.

DR Congo narrowly missed the bronze medal after a goalless draw in the 3rd place playoff, which concluded with a disappointing 6-5 loss to South Africa in Abidjan on Saturday, 10 February.

“We wanted to finish the competition well, but this does not affect our beautiful competition during this AFCON and what the players gave during these last few weeks. We are not third but fourth because we couldn’t finish the chances we created,” said Desabre.

“My takeaway from today is that when we look at the boys’ play, we can see that they give 100% even when they are tired. With this fighting spirit on the pitch, we can get things done. We are delighted with how we have performed at this AFCON. This is a team that was not there in the previous edition so that we can be proud of progress”, concluded the coach.