DR Congo coach Sebastien Desabre says his side will do everything to keep the World Cup dream alive for fans back home, with a victory over already-eliminated Uzbekistan in Atlanta on Saturday set to secure a place in the last 32 as one of the best third-placed teams.
Congo’s campaign has unfolded against an extraordinary backdrop. An Ebola outbreak at home triggered a strict travel ban to the United States, forcing the squad to quarantine in Belgium before travelling to the tournament. Despite those disruptions, Desabre’s side marked their return to the World Cup after 52 years with a stunning 1-1 draw against Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal before a narrow 1-0 defeat to Colombia.
“We’re already happy to have secured the first point for Congo. We can keep the dream and the story alive for all Congolese people,” Desabre said at his pre-match press conference. “Tomorrow a win is essential, so we’ll have to take risks.”
Central to Congo’s hopes is Newcastle striker Yoane Wissa, who scored against Portugal. The 29-year-old joined Newcastle in a £55 million deal from Brentford less than a year ago but endured a difficult first season at St. James’ Park, hampered by injury. He also missed the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year.
Desabre, however, believes Wissa is now back to his best and backed the striker to eventually fulfil his potential at club level as well. “Since the beginning of training he’s been in good shape and he showed that in the first match,” he said.
“I think we shouldn’t assess his move to Newcastle too early. He started off getting injured and at the top level, if you’re not at 100 percent, it’s very difficult. But I know him well, his motivation is impeccable, and I think he’ll do very well at Newcastle.”
