Article: When it comes time to face Sudan for the very last step before CAN 2023, in Ivory Coast, the Leopards of the DRC are under pressure measured by their favorable classification in group I. The calculations could have would be tougher if Sébastien Desabre’s men had not achieved this unexpected comeback, going from last place to first in just three games. Whatever happens, they will not play without pressure on their shoulders, especially in front of their supporters. It is precisely for these latter that the Leopards team and staff will give everything. After the disappointment of the absence in the last edition, the Congolese deserve one this time.
Like a patriot, Sébastien Desabre wants to bring joy back to the millions of Congolese, who, from all over the planet, are just waiting for this qualification to rejoice, forgetting just about their socio-economic and security situation which reeks of absolute precariousness. “The Congolese deserve this qualification especially at the Stade des Martyrs. We are all aware of the importance of this match and we have worked without neglecting anything because we know that it is a final to be won” confessed the French technician to the press.
Note, the Leopards will qualify without calculation in the event of a victory against Sudan. They will also be in the event of a draw. In the worst case, even if there is a defeat, the DRC qualifies if and only if Gabon and Mauritania were to draw, a hypothesis that is still very dangerous and not possible. Now that the work is done, as Sébastien Desabre says, the players must make it happen on the pitch, since the public will be in the stands to do theirs.
Isaac B’ampendee
The pressure is on for the DRC Leopards as they prepare to face Sudan in the final qualifying match before CAN 2023 in Ivory Coast. After a difficult start to the campaign, the Congolese achieved an impressive comeback, going from last to first place in the group in just three games. This favorable situation places them under measured pressure, aware that their destiny is in their hands.
Sébastien Desabre, the coach of the Leopards, is driven by a deep desire to bring joy back to the Congolese population, who are impatiently awaiting this qualification for the final phase of the CAN. In a country where socio-economic and security conditions are precarious, the success of the national team represents hope for millions of Congolese. “The Congolese deserve this qualification, especially at the Stade des Martyrs. We are all aware of the importance of this match and we have worked without neglecting anything because we know that it is a final to be won,” declared Desabre during a press conference.
The Leopards have several possible scenarios to qualify. A victory against Sudan would be enough to secure them a place in the CAN. A draw would also be in their favor. In the worst case, a defeat could be enough if Gabon and Mauritania draw, a scenario which is however unlikely. But Desabre and his players are well aware that they must put their work into action on the pitch to achieve their goal.
The meeting will take place in front of fervent supporters, ready to give voice to support their team. The Leopards are determined to give the best of themselves to offer this long-awaited qualification to their country. The disappointment of the absence at the last edition of the CAN is still palpable and the players want to erase this disappointment by offering a good performance.
The pressure is therefore present, but the Leopards have already shown their ability to manage delicate situations. They were able to bounce back in the last matches and hope to continue this momentum to win their ticket for CAN 2023. The reward is worth it, not only for the team and its staff, but especially for the millions of Congolese who are waiting with looking forward to celebrating this qualification.