DR Congo Coach Florent Ibenge Warns Against Underestimating Madagascar Ahead of CAN Qualifier
DR Congo coach Florent Ibenge has urged caution as his Leopards prepare to host Madagascar’s Bareas in the opening round of the 2017 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) qualifiers this Sunday. Following Madagascar’s impressive performance at the recent Cosafa Cup, Ibenge insists the visitors must be taken seriously, warning against complacency.
“I watched them play against Ghana in the Cosafa Cup (2-1). They are a team that plays well together, with great cohesion and high work rate,” Ibenge said in remarks reported by Radio Okapi. “We are used to minimizing opponents, but there are no more small countries in African football. We have to take them seriously.”
The Congolese side is currently deep in preparations, with Ibenge calling on local supporters to rally behind the Leopards at the Mohamed V Stadium. “When the public plays its part, we are almost unbeatable,” he added. “That’s why I’m asking for their support on Sunday.”
Having refined their overall gameplay during a training camp in Belgium, the Leopards are now focusing on set pieces and match-day routines ahead of the fixture.
However, Ibenge faces challenges with several key players unavailable. Striker Dieumerci Mbokani is sidelined due to illness, while midfielder Neeskens Kebano continues to battle a recurring knee injury. Cedric Makiadi has ended his season mentally fatigued, and Herve Kage is attending to family matters. Meanwhile, Abel Tamata, Jacques Magoma, and Paul-José Mpoku remain in contract negotiations with their respective clubs, leaving their availability uncertain.
Despite these setbacks, Ibenge remains confident his squad can rise to the occasion against an inspired Madagascar side, emphasizing the importance of unity and fan support as the Leopards seek a positive start to their CAN qualifying campaign.
