Sebastien Desabre cut a frustrated but proud figure after DR Congo’s heartbreaking extra-time defeat to Algeria in Rabat, insisting his players “gave everything we had” in their AFCON 2025 last‑16 clash.
The Leopards went toe‑to‑toe with one of the tournament favourites, growing stronger after halftime as Desabre’s changes helped them wrest control of key moments. He felt his side “played a good second half after the changes we made,” only to suffer what he called a “breakdown” in extra time as fatigue and pressure told.
Desabre highlighted how DR Congo created clear chances but could not make them count on a tense night in Rabat. “We created scoring chances and could have scored goals, but we didn’t,” he admitted, noting that his team delivered “a good tactical display” and were undone by harsh luck when substitute Adil Boulbina struck in the 118th minute.
Even in disappointment, the coach refused to criticise his squad, instead choosing to salute their effort and character.
“I have nothing to reproach the players for, and we must keep our heads held high because we gave everything we had,” he said, as DR Congo bowed out of AFCON 2025.
