The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) faces a crucial encounter against Tanzania in their final group stage match of the 2023 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) this Wednesday, January 24. The Leopards, currently positioned second in Group F with 2 points, are at a juncture where victory or a draw could secure their passage to the next round. However, questions loom large over the ideal center forward to spearhead the attack, presenting a selection challenge for coach Sébastien Desabre.
Despite displaying commendable performances in their initial two matches against Zambia (1-1) and Morocco (1-1), the Congolese team has been plagued by a lack of clinical finishing in front of goal.
This deficiency prompts contemplation regarding the optimal choice among the trio of Cédric Bakambu, Fiston Mayele, and Simon Banza for the critical showdown against Tanzania.
Cédric Bakambu, who started in the first two matches, has yet to find the back of the net, but the experienced striker retains the confidence of the coaching staff.
Bakambu’s frustrating missed penalty against Morocco adds to the narrative of his quest for form and confidence.
Simon Banza, the top scorer in the Portuguese championship with 14 goals, has not replicated his domestic success on the international stage.
Despite moments of promise, including a clear opportunity against Zambia, Banza has yet to break his scoring drought with the Leopards.
Fiston Mayele, often utilized as an impact substitute, has a reputation for delivering crucial goals during the qualifiers for AFCON 2023.
While Mayele’s effectiveness off the bench is evident, the question arises whether his impact diminishes when starting matches, a conundrum that coach Desabre must navigate.
In a press statement, Desabre acknowledged the need for strategic changes while maintaining the team’s balance.
“We have to change things but sparingly because we don’t want to lose our balance of play that we are finding.
It’s important to repeat our good phases which endanger the opposing teams,” asserted the DR Congo coach.
As fans and sports analysts speculate on the optimal lineup, the consensus leans towards the inclusion of Fiston Mayele from the start, given his recent impactful performances.
The coach’s decision will be scrutinized as the Leopards aim to secure a vital result against Tanzania and progress to the knockout stage of AFCON 2023.
Sébastien Desabre’s choice of the ideal center forward will undoubtedly shape the narrative of this crucial encounter for the Democratic Republic of Congo.
