DR Congo Coach Desabre Prepares Team for World Cup Opener vs Portugal
DR Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre held a pre-match press conference ahead of their 2026 World Cup group stage opener against Portugal in Houston. He acknowledged Portugal as tournament favorites, praised Cristiano Ronaldo, and emphasized a collective defensive strategy. Desabre expressed confidence in his squad’s speed and tactical flexibility, noting the team’s first World Cup appearance since 1974. He vowed courage and calculated risks, with 100 million Congolese watching. The match is set for June 17, 2026.
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DR Congo Coach Desabre: Forcing England Required World-Class Strikers; We Gave Our All
After a 2-1 World Cup Round of 16 loss to England, DR Congo head coach Sebastien Desabre addressed the press, expressing both regret and pride. He thanked his players for their tactical execution, particularly in the first half, and noted that despite leading, the team conceded space for counterattacks, forcing England to rely on world-class forwards to score. Desabre highlighted the use of three tactical systems (4-3-3, 3-5-2, 4-4-2) over four years, and explained his decision to start a four-back possession-based system—to stretch width and cut off England's key playmaker Anderson—inspired by Ghana's defensive approach. He praised England's ability to turn the game but declined to analyze their strengths. Desabre emphasized that the team performed near 100% capacity, valued the experience for young players on their first World Cup stage, and sent gratitude to the 116 million Congolese fans.
虎扑 - 足球Desabre: DR Congo showed resilience like the country in World Cup exit
Sébastien Desabre, head coach of the DR Congo national football team, stated on Wednesday that his players demonstrated 'resilience' during their World Cup round-of-16 match against England, despite losing 2-1. He drew a parallel between the team's performance and the country's struggle with the Ebola outbreak. Desabre emphasized that the team played good football and wanted to leave a positive impression for Congo and its fans. The match took place on July 1, 2026, eliminating DR Congo from the tournament.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuDR Congo Coach Desabre Laments Lack of Experience After 2-1 Loss to England
Sébastien Desabre, the coach of the Democratic Republic of Congo, expressed disappointment but praised his team's performance after they lost 2-1 to England in a friendly match. DR Congo, considered underdogs, surprised by taking the lead into halftime. However, England's star player scored twice in the final stages to snatch victory. Desabre noted that his team lacked experience in crucial moments but emphasized that such matches are valuable for growth. He congratulated his players and stated that DR Congo's football is being built through these experiences against top-tier opponents.
Record2026 World Cup: DR Congo Coach Proud of Players Despite Elimination by England
DR Congo's national football team, the Leopards, were eliminated from the 2026 World Cup Round of 16 after a 2-1 loss to England in Atlanta. England captain Harry Kane scored both goals, overturning DR Congo's hopes for a historic qualification. Despite the disappointment, head coach Sébastien Desabre expressed pride in his players, stating they played a good match and gained valuable experience. He acknowledged that the team lacked experience in critical moments but emphasized that Congolese football is progressing and will continue to build from this campaign. The match was closely contested, and Desabre highlighted the learning opportunity provided by competing against top-tier teams like England.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertDR Congo Coach Desabre: Penalty Shootout Possible Against England, We Have Experience
DR Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre addressed the media ahead of the World Cup Round of 16 match against England. He stated that the team has practiced penalties and has experience winning shootouts, including against Nigeria in the Africa Cup of Nations. Desabre acknowledged the motivation of players with Premier League experience but emphasized that facing a top-five world team is the primary motivation. He noted that Yoane Wissa has returned to his best form after scoring two goals against Uzbekistan. Desabre stressed the need for discipline, avoiding mistakes, and playing at their highest level to compete against England, ranked fourth in the world. He defended his starting lineup choices, including Cédric Bakambu, and praised the team's resilience, highlighting their qualifying campaign where they overcame a setback by winning five consecutive matches. Desabre declined to answer in English out of respect for his country and local journalists.
虎扑 - 足球Desabre: DR Congo shown ability to compete with top nations ahead of England World Cup clash
DR Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre stated that his team's World Cup campaign is already a success, and the round of 16 match against England is an opportunity for another upset. Speaking on July 1, 2026, Desabre acknowledged the ranking gap between DR Congo (41st) and England (4th) but insisted his side has demonstrated tactical capability to compete with elite teams like Portugal. The Leopards face England on Wednesday in a knockout match, aiming to build on their previous performances in the tournament.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuDR Congo Coach Hails 'Great Achievement' After World Cup Round of 16 Qualification
DR Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre expressed immense satisfaction after his team defeated Uzbekistan 3-1 to qualify for the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Desabre praised his players for their determination and resilience, noting that despite conceding an early goal, the team reacted well, as they had done in recent matches against Portugal and Nigeria. He emphasized the importance of squad rotation, with rested players bringing fresh energy. Desabre also highlighted the pride in multiple African teams qualifying and DR Congo's role in contributing to the continent's football progress. Looking ahead to the round of 16 match against England, he acknowledged England's favoritism but affirmed that DR Congo will prepare professionally and aim for victory, with some of his players familiar with English football.
RecordDR Congo Coach Sébastien Desabre Hails World Cup Round of 16 Qualification After 3-1 Win Over Uzbekistan
The coach of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Frenchman Sébastien Desabre, praised his team after they defeated Uzbekistan 3-1 to qualify for the Round of 16 of the World Cup. Desabre highlighted the group's four-year journey and belief, stating the victory 'means a lot for the country' and gave a positive image of Congo. He acknowledged an early defensive mistake but noted that fielding fresh players who had not played in the first two matches (against Portugal and Colombia) provided an advantage and led to a logical win. Desabre said preparations will immediately begin for the next match against England, with several DR Congo players who play in English clubs expected to be useful.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuDR Congo coach acknowledges Colombia defeat, shifts focus to Uzbekistan match
DR Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre addressed his team's 1-0 loss to Colombia, acknowledging Colombia's superiority in multiple facets of the game. Despite the defeat, Desabre praised his team's defensive efforts and goalkeeper's performance while noting that former FC Porto midfielder Juan Quintero caused significant problems after his introduction. Desabre emphasized that DR Congo will adopt a more risk-oriented approach in their upcoming final match against Uzbekistan, scheduled for early Sunday (00:30 Portuguese time). He stressed the importance of recovery and focus on this decisive fixture.
RecordDR Congo Head Coach Calls Final Group Match Against Uzbekistan Decisive After 0-1 Loss to Colombia
DR Congo lost 0-1 to Colombia in the second round of the World Cup group stage, leaving them with 1 point (1 draw, 1 loss) and third place in Group K. Head coach Sebastien Desabre acknowledged Colombia's superiority and praised his team's fighting spirit but admitted to defensive gaps, particularly after Colombia's Juan Fernando Quintero entered the match. Desabre stated that the final group match against Uzbekistan is now decisive, requiring a riskier approach since a draw is insufficient. He emphasized the need for physical recovery and tactical adjustments, noting that DR Congo gained valuable experience from facing strong teams like Portugal (ranked 5th) and Colombia (ranked 12th) in their first World Cup appearance. Despite the loss, Desabre highlighted the team's unity and expressed optimism about preparing to beat Uzbekistan.
虎扑 - 足球DR Congo coach Desabre refuses to criticize players after 1-0 World Cup defeat to Colombia
Following a 1-0 World Cup loss to Colombia, Democratic Republic of Congo head coach Sébastien Desabre stated he has no criticism for his players, acknowledging they fought hard despite the defeat. He noted Colombia's superior ball possession, speed, and vertical play. Desabre highlighted that a draw against Uzbekistan on June 27 will not be enough to reach the round of 16, so his team will take risks and go all out for a win. He praised goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi for his crucial first-half saves. Desabre emphasized the need for rapid recovery after facing group favorites Portugal and Colombia, expressing determination to close the group stage with a victory.
FútbolPortugal Held to 1-1 Draw by DR Congo, Face Pressure Against Uzbekistan
Portugal began their World Cup campaign with a disappointing 1-1 draw against DR Congo, a result that fell short of the Iberian side's ambitions. The match highlighted vulnerabilities in Roberto Martinez's squad, placing them under considerable pressure ahead of their next fixture against Uzbekistan. With expectations high for a deep tournament run, Portugal now faces a must-win situation to keep their campaign on track. The draw against a tough African opponent signals potential challenges ahead, and the team will need to improve quickly to avoid an early exit.
kicker Fußball NewsVillas-Boas Criticizes Portugal's World Cup Start, Urges Rethink and Less Beach Time
FC Porto president André Villas-Boas commented on Portugal's 1-1 World Cup debut draw against DR Congo, calling the performance 'weak' and not befitting Portugal's 'golden generation' of players. Despite the setback, he expressed confidence that the team can reverse course and win the 2026 World Cup, drawing parallels to Spain's similar first-match draw. Villas-Boas advised the team to 'go to the beach less' and focus on strategy and unity. He also voiced hopes that Cristiano Ronaldo, whom he called the greatest talent in world football, could lift the World Cup trophy like Lionel Messi did in Qatar. The remarks were made in an interview with 'Jornal de Notícias'.
RecordMirror: After Draw, Portugal Coach Martinez Consults Ronaldo and Team to Revive World Cup Hopes
According to the Daily Mirror, Portugal manager Roberto Martinez held a team meeting after a shocking 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo in their World Cup group opener. The result left Portugal's advancement in jeopardy and placed media pressure on Martinez. During the meeting, players reviewed footage of their mistakes, and Martinez specifically sought input from veteran players, including Cristiano Ronaldo, who had a lackluster performance with only 25 touches. Critics suggest benching the 41-year-old Ronaldo, but Martinez has not responded clearly. Portugal faces a must-win match against Uzbekistan next, and Martinez must quickly adjust tactics and lineup to avoid elimination.
虎扑 - 足球Portugal boss Roberto Martinez holds showdown talks after DR Congo draw; Neymar ruled out for Brazil
Portugal manager Roberto Martinez held crisis talks with his squad after a humiliating 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their World Cup opener. The team reviewed video footage of the match, and Martinez consulted senior players including Cristiano Ronaldo about needed changes. Martinez faces criticism for not substituting the ineffective Ronaldo. Portugal next faces Uzbekistan, and failure to win could jeopardize their knockout stage hopes. Separately, Brazil star Neymar is set to miss the match against Haiti due to a calf injury, with Endrick or Matheus Cunha likely to start. Scotland, meanwhile, had a full squad for training ahead of their Group C match against Morocco, with Scott McKenna returning from injury.
Mirror - FootballPortugal's World Cup Opener Ends in Disappointment Against DR Congo
Portugal's 2026 World Cup campaign began disastrously in Houston, Texas, with a 1-1 draw (or loss, implied by 'punishment') against DR Congo, despite early expectations of a gala performance. João Neves scored a brilliant goal in the 6th minute, but the team's lateralized, slow-paced possession football failed to break down the Congolese defense. Yoane Wissa punished Portugal's lethargy with a goal just before halftime. The analysis heavily criticizes coach Roberto Martínez for his post-match press conference, where he praised the team's 'control' and 'patience' despite a lack of verticality, intensity, and self-criticism. The article warns that without an immediate revolution in attitude and tactics, Portugal risks an early exit, with the next match against Uzbekistan on June 23rd being critical.
RecordPortugal Coach Roberto Martinez Gives Lucid Assessment After 2026 World Cup Draw with DR Congo
Portugal drew 1-1 with the Democratic Republic of Congo in a 2026 World Cup group stage match on American soil. Coach Roberto Martinez gave a lucid post-match assessment, focusing on positives despite the disappointing result. Portugal took an early lead through Joao Neves in the 7th minute, but the Leopards equalized. Martinez praised his team's attitude and commitment, stating they fought until the end and can improve significantly. He noted that the early goal should have been a highlight but wasn't, and that the confidence gained by Congo after the equalizer made the match difficult. Portugal's next match is against Uzbekistan. The article also references criticism of Cristiano Ronaldo's performance by Thierry Henry.
Foot Mercato : Info Transferts Football - Actu Foot TransfertDR Congo Midfielder Says No Special Tactics Needed to Mark Ronaldo, But Calls Him One of the Greatest
In a post-match interview following a 1-1 World Cup group stage draw between DR Congo and Portugal, DR Congo midfielder Muka stated that his team did not prepare any special defensive tactics to stop Cristiano Ronaldo. Muka acknowledged that Ronaldo is older and not the same player he once was, but emphasized that he remains one of the greatest players in football history. The comments reflect a respectful but pragmatic assessment of the Portuguese star's current form. The match ended in a draw, and the interview was reported by Hupu Football News.
虎扑 - 足球DR Congo Coach Desabre: Historic Draw with Portugal, Next Target is Group Stage Advancement
After the Democratic Republic of Congo drew 1-1 with Portugal in their World Cup group stage opener, head coach Sebastien Desabre held a press conference. He described the result as historic, noting it was the nation's first World Cup point and goal. Desabre acknowledged early nervousness but praised his team's tactical discipline and set-piece execution. He emphasized that the team's primary goal is to advance from the group, not to be satisfied with a single draw. He highlighted the need to recover well and focus on upcoming matches against Colombia and Uzbekistan. Desabre also expressed pride in his players' mental resilience and ability to bounce back from a difficult start, and thanked the Congolese people for their support despite limited fan presence in the stadium.
虎扑 - 足球Leão: Portugal Must Show Best Level in Every Match; We Did That Today But Didn't Win
Portugal forward Rafael Leão spoke to media after a 1-1 draw with DR Congo in their World Cup group stage opener. Leão stated the team was not surprised by DR Congo's strength, noting their physicality and European-based players. He attributed the conceded goal to a defensive mistake from a corner kick. Despite controlling the game and fighting until the end, Portugal only earned one point. Leão expressed disappointment but emphasized respect for DR Congo and the need to rest, correct mistakes in training, and focus on the next match. He acknowledged the difficulty of all World Cup matches and stressed that Portugal must play at its best level in every game, even if results don't always follow.
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