With 5 days until AFCON 2025 kicks off, DR Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre has warned that his team is no longer a mere underdog.
Following a semi-final run in the previous tournament and a historic 2026 World Cup qualification, Desabre insists the Leopards’ resurgence is built on lasting substance.
He views the upcoming matches as a chance to prove that their recent dominance over teams like Nigeria and Cameroon was the foundation of a new era, rather than a stroke of luck.
The Leopards face a daunting Group B featuring Senegal, Benin, and Botswana.
Desabre remains focused on the opening clash against Benin, noting that his squad holds a unique psychological edge: they recently won their World Cup playoff in the exact same stadium and hotel they will use this month.
By leaning on the veteran leadership of captain Chancel Mbemba and striker Cédric Bakambu, Desabre aims to navigate the group stage and once again bring “joy to the fans” back home in Kinshasa.
