AFCON: DR Congo disappointed with exit – admits coach Desabre

DR Congo national team head coach Sébastien Desabre claimed his side did enough against Algeria to qualify for the quarterfinals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and they are disappointed they did not make it in Morocco on Tuesday.

Substitute Adil Boulbina struck deep into extra time to send Algeria into the last eight, sealing a hard-fought 1-0 victory against the Leopards. With the Round of 16 fixture headed for penalties, Boulbina scored in the 118th minute.

His goal came five minutes after he had come on as a substitute. The breakthrough confirmed the end of DR Congo’s journey at the 35th edition of the AFCON in the North African nation.

DR Congo did an excellent job despite defeat

“We played a good second half after the changes we made, but during extra time there was a breakdown. We did an excellent job and now we are disappointed,” said Desabre as quoted by CAF Media.

“I congratulate the Algerian team and wish them the best. We created scoring chances and could have scored goals, but we didn’t. We gave a good tactical display in the match, but unfortunately luck was harsh on us.

“I have nothing to reproach the players for, and we must keep our heads held high because we gave everything we had.”

Following the win, Algeria advanced to a showdown against Nigeria in Marrakesh, as their bid for a second AFCON title in six years gathers momentum.