Desabre Urges DR Congo to Fight for World Cup Qualification

DR Congo head coach Sebastien Desabre has said his team must take risks in their final group game against Uzbekistan if they are to keep their World Cup hopes alive.

The Congolese will face Uzbekistan in Atlanta on Saturday, knowing that victory could secure a place in the last 32 as one of the best third-placed teams in the tournament.

DR Congo have already exceeded expectations during their first World Cup appearance in 52 years, earning a 1-1 draw against Portugal before suffering a narrow defeat to Colombia.

Desabre said the team’s performances have given supporters back home something to celebrate amid difficult circumstances.

“We’re already happy to have secured the first point for Congo; we’ve had a strong run and we can keep the dream and the story alive for all Congolese people,” the French coach said.

“Our players are ready to rise to this challenge. Tomorrow a win is essential, so we’ll have to take risks.”

The squad’s preparation for the tournament was affected by strict travel restrictions caused by an Ebola outbreak in DR Congo.

Players and officials were forced to quarantine in Belgium before entering the United States for the competition.

Desabre also backed striker Yoane Wissa to play an important role against Uzbekistan and succeed at Newcastle United despite a difficult debut season.

The 29-year-old forward joined Newcastle from Brentford in a £55 million deal but struggled with injuries and missed the Africa Cup of Nations earlier this year.

“We’ve got him back to his best. Since the beginning of the training he’s been in good shape and he showed that in the first match,” Desabre said.

“I think we shouldn’t assess his move to Newcastle too early. He started off getting injured against Senegal and you know that at the top level of football, 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.”

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