AFCON 2023: South Africa and DRC brace for third-place playoff

As the Africa Cup of Nations nears its conclusion, South Africa and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are set to battle it out for third place in a highly anticipated showdown. Ahead of the match, coaches Hugo Broos and Sebastien Desabre provided insights into their teams' preparations and aspirations.

Reflecting on their recent semifinal losses, South Africa's coach Hugo Broos highlighted the positive aspects of his team's performance against Nigeria. "We played against Nigeria in the semifinal, and it was honestly a great performance - we showed that we are a good team," Broos stated, emphasizing the disappointment of exiting through penalties.

🎙: 🇿🇦 🆚 🇨🇩

An intense encounter between 2 giants incoming. ✌️#TotalEnergiesAFCON2023 pic.twitter.com/9yv4h7sTNp

— CAF_Online (@CAF_Online) February 9, 2024

Looking ahead to the third-place playoff against DRC, Broos anticipated a tough encounter. "It will be a tough game," he admitted, stressing the importance of mental recovery for both teams. Broos also acknowledged the challenges posed by injuries and suspensions within his squad but remained optimistic about fielding a competitive team. "Some players will not be available," he noted. "But I hope we will have a team ready for the third-place playoff."

Meanwhile, DRC coach Sebastien Desabre expressed his team's determination to secure a victory in the third-place playoff. "All matches are important for us, and the fans in Congo really love this team," Desabre said, underscoring the significance of the match for DRC's supporters.

With both teams aiming to salvage pride and secure a podium finish, the South Africa vs. DRC matchup promises to be a gripping contest.

Football enthusiasts can expect an intense battle between two formidable sides vying for victory in the Africa Cup of Nations third-place playoff.

The match will be played at the Alassane Outtara Stadium in Embipe, Northern Abidjan in Ivory Coast from 11PM EAT.