A Pride Match Under the Rabat Lights
Rabat’s Prince Moulay Abdellah Stadium will host Congo-Brazzaville’s final 2026 qualifying act on Tuesday at 8:00 PM. Although the ticket to North America has already slipped away, the match against the undefeated Morocco is seen within the team as a gateway to confidence rather than an epilogue.
The Red Devils have only achieved modest results in this campaign, but the players are talking about finishing with dignity and, above all, cohesion. “If we leave Rabat compact and focused, we gain something important for the future,” explained captain Chancel Massa before boarding the chartered flight.
Morocco’s Perfect Campaign Defines the Challenge
Morocco’s numbers are impressive: seven wins, twenty-one goals scored, and only two conceded, according to FIFA statistics. Yet, the Congolese delegation insists the gap is not a reason for fatalism. Defender Baron Kibamba noted that friendly matches against elite opponents have already accelerated the team’s learning curve.
Head coach Paul Put, appointed by the Congolese Football Federation last year, has built this week’s preparations around video analysis and short, high-intensity sessions. “We respect Morocco, but we are not going to park the bus,” the Belgian strategist told journalists at the mandatory pre-match briefing.
Paul Put’s Tactical Overhaul
Put’s plan relies on disciplined pressing and quick transitions, areas that have been inconsistent earlier in the qualifiers. Analysts observed that wing play significantly improved in the recent 1-1 draw against Tanzania, a sign that the repeated tactical patterns are starting to take hold.
Offensive stalwart Bersyl Obassi, still only 22, believes the match offers “the fastest possible class.” He will operate behind center-forward Prince Ibara, whose aerial presence worries defenders. The duo combined for five shots on target in training on Monday, team analysts confirmed.
Young Talents Seek a Night of Affirmation
Another storyline revolves around forward Juvhel Tsoumou, who made his debut in the last window and scored within nine minutes. The German-born striker told state radio he feels “totally Congolese” and hopes a strong performance in Rabat will cement his role when the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers resume.
Statistically, Congo’s Achilles’ heel has been conversion. Eight big chances were missed in three recent outings, according to data shared by the performance unit. Put responded by adding veteran finisher Férébory Doré to the traveling squad, arguing that experience can calm the nerves of younger players in decisive moments.
Financial and Institutional Stakes
The federation’s technical director emphasizes that tonight’s context differs from typical dead rubbers. Sponsorship negotiations with two telecommunications companies partly depend on perceived progress. “A disciplined demonstration, even without a win, underscores that our project is investable,” he said, alluding to broader financial stakes.
Support from government sports bodies has also been visible. The Ministry of Youth