AFCON 2023: Sabastien Desabre staring at history, firm on DR Congo beating Ivory Coast to reach the final

Sebastien Desabre in training|COURTESY IMAGE

AFCON 2023: Sabastien Desabre staring at history, firm on DR Congo beating Ivory Coast to reach the final

Allan Damba • 12:50 - 07.02.2024

"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.

Sebastien Desabre breathing confidence, raring to guide DR Congo past Ivory Coast|FNTV IMAGE

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.

"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.

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.

Desabre will be buoyed by a fully fit squad with no suspensions as he stares at history.

Sebastien Desabre|COURTESY

On the other hand, Ivory Coast will be dealt massive blows with the absences of Serge Aurier, Christian Kouame, Odilon Koussounou and Oumar Diakite.