Senegal midfielder Idrissa Gana Gueye has warned his teammates to expect a demanding test when they face DR Congo at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, describing the Leopards as one of the continent’s rising forces.
Both sides are coming into the match with confidence, but Gueye believes DR Congo’s recent progress makes them a serious challenge. He pointed to their strong showing at the last AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire as evidence of a team that has matured and earned respect across Africa.
“This team showed great things at the AFCON in Côte d’Ivoire,” Gueye said. “DR Congo has become a major team in Africa. We have a lot of respect for this national selection.”
Despite Senegal’s status, the experienced midfielder stressed the importance of discipline and focus, insisting the Teranga Lions must concentrate on their own game plan rather than the reputation of their opponents.
“We are trying to focus on ourselves and follow the coach’s instructions,” he added. “It will take patience and, above all, determination.”
Senegal opened their tournament with a solid performance and will be keen to secure another positive result as they push for early qualification to the knockout stages. DR Congo, however, arrive with belief and momentum, making the encounter one of the standout fixtures of the group phase.
With respect on both sides and qualification at stake, the clash in Morocco is shaping up to be a test of nerve as much as quality, a match where patience, as Gueye suggests, could prove decisive.
