Democratic Republic of Congo will approach their World Cup opener against Portugal without fear, with coach Sebastien Desabre insisting his side are ready to take calculated risks in their first appearance at the tournament in 52 years.
DR Congo, competing at the World Cup for the first time since 1974 when they participated as Zaire, face a daunting challenge against a Portugal side led by veteran superstar Cristiano Ronaldo.
However, Desabre believes opening matches can often present opportunities for underdogs to catch favourites off guard.
“What we have to do is deal with the pressure of the first game,” Desabre said.
“I want my team to play, so we’ll take risks. Those risks will be measured. There’s no fear ahead of those big events.”
The Congolese coach believes his squad is far stronger than the one that appeared at the 1974 World Cup, pointing to a group filled with players competing in top European leagues and attackers capable of troubling Portugal’s defence.
Desabre also welcomed having a fully fit squad available, giving him greater tactical flexibility for the Group K encounter.
“We have a great strength that we’ll be using on the pitch,” he said.
“We’ll start with our own style of play and, depending on how the match develops, we can adapt.”
DR Congo’s preparations were affected by the Ebola outbreak at home, although Desabre noted that most of his players are based in Europe, limiting the disruption to the team’s build-up.
Travel restrictions are expected to reduce the number of Congolese supporters attending matches, but the coach said his players remain motivated by the support of millions watching from home.
“We have 100 million Congolese people who will be watching us,” Desabre said.
“Of course, we want to perform well. We want to show courage and we’ll do our best on the pitch.”
After Portugal, DR Congo will continue their Group K campaign against Colombia and Uzbekistan as they chase a place in the knockout stage.
