Equatorial Guinea vs. Congo: Opening Clash of the 2015 AFCON
Equatorial Guinea and Congo kick off the 2015 African Cup of Nations this Saturday in a match that promises to be closely contested, though the Red Devils are clear favorites on paper. Claude Leroy’s Congo boasts arguably the strongest squad in the tournament.
With players like Oniangue, Bifouma, and Ndinga, the Congolese midfield is enviable for any coach on the continent. Known for his attacking philosophy, Leroy relies heavily on Bifouma to supply striker Fodé Doré, a combination that proved decisive during qualifying.
On the other side, Equatorial Guinea, known as Nzalang, remains largely an enigma. The team was assembled barely two months ago under a new coach, just weeks before the tournament. Many players were born in Spain and ply their trade in lesser-known leagues, making them difficult to analyze.
Both teams know the importance of starting strong—at the Africa Cup of Nations, every match is crucial.
Probable Lineups:
Equatorial Guinea: Felipe Ovono – Dani Evuy, Igor Engonga, Rui Fernando, Armando Bohale – Emilio Nsue, Edjogo-Owono, Pablo Ganet – Javier Balboa, Ivan Bolado, Ruben Dario
Congo: Chansel Massa – Igor Nganga, Boris Moubio, Francis Nganga, Dimitri Bissiki – Delvin Ndinga, Prince Oniangué, Césair Gandzé – Franci Litsingi, Thievy Bifouma, Fodé Doré