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"We are competitors; we want to reach the finals and will do everything to achieve that," Desabre stated bullishly.
After rolling past Egypt and Guinea, Democratic Republic of Congo and head coach Sebastien Desabre are close to a first Africa Cup of Nations final since 1974.
The Leopards take on host Ivory Coast at the 60,000-capacity Stade Alassane Ouattara in Yamoussoukro this Wednesday.
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And, former Uganda Cranes coach Desabre believes his men can pull off another shock result after dumping out record seven-time winners Egypt and Guinea at the Round of 16 and quarterfinals, respectively.
"We approach this with calmness and patience. The boys have recovered well after beating Guinea," the Frenchman was quoted by CAF media.
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12:41 - 07.02.2024
AFCON 2023: "We have no stars like Osimhen but..." - South Africa's coach Broos laments and aims dig at Nigeria
He juxtaposed with his team, who play more as a unit than depend on the big names.
"Having an extra day of rest compared to our opponent could also be key," he added regarding Ivory Coast.
"They have a quality squad, and even without four players, they have other strengths and a deep bench," he noted.
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18:10 - 03.02.2024
AFCON 2023: Sebastien Desabre has new targets after guiding DR Congo to the semifinals
But, the Frenchman isn't settling for less and has asserted his optimism of reaching final. He had prior to the tournament, indicated that he targeted to finish "as far as we can go."
However, the ex-Zamalek coach stressed his Congolese outfit would not be fazed by the intimidating atmosphere expected.
"We are competitors; we want to reach the finals and will do everything to achieve that," Desabre stated bullishly.
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13:00 - 07.02.2024
FOOTBALL Can Cote d'Ivoire leverage home advantage to overcome DR Congo's challenge?
The Elephants are set to face DR Congo in AFCON 2023 semi-final amidst key player suspensions.
Desabre will be buoyed by a fully fit squad with no suspensions as he stares at history.
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On the other hand, Ivory Coast will be dealt massive blows with the absences of Serge Aurier, Christian Kouame, Odilon Koussounou and Oumar Diakite.
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