CAN 2025: Desabre discusses the Leopards’ chances at the Africa Cup of Nations | OneFootball

CAN 2025: Desabre analyzes DR Congo’s group

Sebastien Desabre / @x.com/TfrmTheSev/

French head coach of the Democratic Republic of Congo, Sébastien Desabre, has spoken about his team—the Leopards—and their prospects for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, set to take place in Morocco from December 21 to January 18, featuring 24 competing nations.

CAN 2025: Desabre analyzes DR Congo’s group

In an interview with the official website of the Confederation of African Football (CAF), the Leopards’ tactician shared his thoughts on DR Congo’s group at CAN 2025, which includes Senegal, Benin, and Botswana.

“As with every edition of the Africa Cup of Nations, the groups are extremely tough. No matter the draw, you always find very strong teams. Senegal is one of the best African sides—arguably the best at the moment,” he stated.

The Leopards’ coach then touched on Benin: “It’s a team I know well. The country has implemented a genuine development program over several years, and it’s starting to yield results—especially in local football—under the guidance of Gernot Rohr, an excellent coach.”

On Botswana, Desabre issued a warning: “They’re a tough team to face. They proved it in their recent matches, especially against Algeria during the qualifiers.”

Desabre discusses the Leopards’ challenges at CAN 2025

Asked about DR Congo’s ambitions for this continental tournament, the 49-year-old coach was both cautious and confident.

“The first objective is to get through the group stage, which is fundamental. Once we reach the round of 16, we’ll be entering a decisive phase. We have a squad capable of going far in this competition.”

To conclude, Sébastien Desabre highlighted the unpredictable nature of the AFCON: “The balance of power is always shifting. The draw is important and no team— not even favorites like Morocco or Senegal— is guaranteed the title. The history of the CAN is full of surprises. Our ambition is to prove that what we achieved in Côte d’Ivoire wasn’t a one-off, but the start of a solid, lasting project.”