After 15 years away from the spotlight of the Africa Cup of Nations, Congo-Brazzaville is not just back—they’re making a statement. The Red Devils topped their group in the 2015 AFCON against the odds and are now preparing for a historic all-Congo quarter-final derby against the Leopards of DR Congo.
🔥 A Historic Showdown: Congo vs DR Congo
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Date: January 31, 2015
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Venue: Bata, Equatorial Guinea
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Occasion: Quarter-final of the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations
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Rivalry: A fierce and symbolic derby between the two Congos—Brazzaville and Kinshasa, separated by the Congo River but united by football passion.
🎙️ Thievy Bifouma: Focused and Hopeful
The Almeria forward, who has been a key figure for Congo throughout the group stage, remains cautiously optimistic about his fitness after taking a knock in the match against Burkina Faso:
“I’m in the recovery phase… I really want to be there on Saturday. Whether I’m on the pitch or not, I’ll support my teammates.”
Bifouma has already shown his value, not just through goals and skill, but also through leadership and spirit, echoing the belief in Claude Le Roy’s philosophy.
🧠 Coach Claude Le Roy’s Impact
A seasoned veteran at the AFCON, Claude Le Roy is working his magic once again. This marks his eighth AFCON appearance, and seven of his previous teams reached at least the quarter-finals. With Congo, he has transformed a team that had been in the shadows into a disciplined, cohesive unit capable of shocking stronger sides.
🇨🇬 Congo’s Mission
From being underdogs in a group featuring the likes of Burkina Faso and Gabon, the Red Devils now find themselves on the verge of a semifinal berth — a feat they haven’t achieved since 1974.
As Kinshasa and Brazzaville prepare for a derby with continental stakes, expect fireworks on and off the pitch. This clash isn’t just about football—it’s about pride, history, and proving that Congo is truly a rising power in African football.
Stay tuned — Saturday in Bata will be historic.
