AFCON 2015: Congo Face Must-Win Clash Against Group Leaders Gabon
By BBC Sport Africa
Bata – January 2015
Congo face a critical test in their Africa Cup of Nations campaign this afternoon as they take on Group A leaders Gabon in a high-stakes clash in Bata. After drawing their opening match against hosts Equatorial Guinea, the Red Devils are under pressure to secure a positive result to keep their hopes of reaching the quarter-finals alive.
With Gabon already on three points following their impressive 2-0 win over Burkina Faso, Congo cannot afford a defeat. Head coach Claude Le Roy may opt for a more attacking strategy from the outset, aiming to disrupt Gabon’s rhythm and avoid handing them early qualification.
“We played against Equatorial Guinea, and now we’re up against Gabon — a team with quality players I won’t name individually,” said Jean Michel Mbono, president of the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFOOT), in an interview with Les Dépêches de Brazzaville. “They already have three points. We must not let them reach six and qualify. For us, the worst result would be a draw. But ideally, we need a win to strengthen our position for the final group game.”
Congo will be relying on key figures such as captain Prince Oniangué and striker Thierry Bifouma to lead the charge. Bifouma, known for his pace and energy, will be looking to make an impact up front, while Oniangué anchors a midfield tasked with both shielding the defence and linking with the attack.
Veteran coach Claude Le Roy, managing in a record-extending eighth Africa Cup of Nations, brings a wealth of experience and tactical insight to the Congolese bench. His focus will be on breaking Gabon’s momentum, particularly in containing the threat posed by the Panthers’ attacking trio led by Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang.
Gabon, who outclassed Burkina Faso in their opener, will be confident but cautious. Their approach leans heavily on technical ability and swift transitions — qualities that could be challenged by Congo’s more physical and direct style of play.
Le Roy’s men are expected to press high and use their athleticism to disrupt Gabon’s buildup, hoping to take control early and unsettle the group leaders.
With the group finely balanced and qualification scenarios beginning to take shape, today’s encounter could prove pivotal for both teams. A win for Gabon would guarantee their place in the quarter-finals. For Congo, anything less than victory could leave them with a mountain to climb in their final group game.
Kick-off in Bata is expected to draw significant attention, not just for the derby atmosphere between two Central African rivals, but for the high stakes that could define the destiny of Group A.
