Congo’s national football team, under French coach Sébastien Desabre, is aiming for a surprising qualification to the knockout stage of the World Cup. In an interview with *Le Figaro*, Desabre dismissed the notion of simply participating as tourists in the tournament. He articulated a clear objective: to advance beyond the group stage and reach the round of 16. Desabre expressed confidence in his team’s capabilities and preparation. This ambition marks a significant shift in expectations for the Congolese team on the world stage. The coach’s statement signals a determined approach to their upcoming matches, particularly against strong opponents like Portugal. He believes his squad is ready to compete and make a mark on the competition.