DR Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre has praised the resilience and competitive spirit of his players after their dramatic penalty shootout victory over Nigeria, insisting that his side fully deserved to advance to the intercontinental playoff round of the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
Speaking after the emotionally charged contest in Rabat, Desabre said his team executed their game plan with maturity, discipline and belief, even when Nigeria appeared to have the momentum at different moments of the match.
Read Also: Nigeria Volleyball President Nimrod Insists Coaching Development Is Key to Global Success
He noted that controlling the rhythm of the game was always part of DR Congo’s strategy, particularly against a Nigerian side he described as “higher ranked, experienced and dangerous in transition.”
The match saw Nigeria take an early lead through Frank Onyeka before DR Congo equalised via Meschack Elia, a moment Desabre said reflected the mental strength of his squad. According to him, coming back against Nigeria — a team he respects for its individual brilliance and physical dominance — was evidence that DR Congo’s development under his leadership is progressing more rapidly than many observers realise.
Desabre highlighted the second half and extra time as the periods in which the Leopards demonstrated their superior focus and composure. He admitted Nigeria had the better chances early in the game, but insisted that once his team settled, they handled the pressure more effectively and created opportunities that could have finished the match before penalties.
On the shootout, Desabre praised goalkeeper Mpasi-Nzau for his leadership and calmness, describing him as “a rock” whose presence lifted the team. He added that the players had been practising penalties throughout the week and were mentally prepared for the moment.
Desabre concluded by saying this victory is not only significant for the team, but symbolic for DR Congo as a nation hungry to return to the world stage after years of disappointment. He stated boldly that if the Leopards maintain their level of discipline and unity, they are capable of securing World Cup qualification for the first time since 1974.
