Head coach of DR Congo, Sébastien Desabre, says his side is ready to seize a historic opportunity as they prepare for a decisive intercontinental playoff for a place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Speaking in an interview published by FIFA, the French tactician expressed confidence in his team’s focus and determination ahead of the crucial encounter scheduled for March 31 in Guadalajara.
DR Congo, also known as the Leopards, are seeking to qualify for the World Cup for the first time since 1974, when the country, then competing as Zaire, made its only appearance but exited at the group stage without scoring a goal.
Desabre believes the team’s progress has been built on resilience and unity throughout a challenging qualifying campaign that has tested the squad at every stage.
“We’re really fired up and still on course to meet our main objective,” he said.
“This upcoming final will be our 13th match in the campaign. It has been a long road, and we’ve had to fight through every stage.”
The Congolese side booked their place in the playoff after a dramatic victory over Nigeria in the CAF playoff round held in Morocco.
The match ended 1-1 before DR Congo triumphed 4-3 on penalties.
However, the result did not come without controversy.
Nigeria lodged a complaint with FIFA, alleging that ineligible players had been fielded during the match.
While the protest generated debate, no official ruling has been announced, and preparations for the playoff have continued as scheduled.
Reflecting on the journey so far, Desabre stressed the importance of collective growth rather than individual brilliance.
“It’s about everything we’ve experienced together, the highs and the lows,” he said.
“Those moments have strengthened the team and brought us to where we are today.”
Defensive organisation has been a cornerstone of DR Congo’s recent performances.
The team has conceded just once in their last four matches, a statistic the coach attributes to strong cohesion and shared commitment within the squad.
“The players share a strong bond on and off the pitch. Everyone is working in the same direction,” he added.
Attention now turns to the decisive playoff in Guadalajara, where DR Congo will face either the Jamaica or New Caledonia for a place at the global tournament.
Desabre acknowledged the magnitude of the occasion but urged his players to remain composed as they chase history.
“We all dream of playing at the World Cup, but we must not let emotions take over. What matters is delivering on the day and making the nation proud,” he said.
Victory in the playoff would mark a significant milestone for DR Congo, ending a wait of more than five decades and securing a return to football’s biggest stage.
