This archive report was first published on 6 July 2019.
Published on July 6, 2019, the Congolese national team has a history of struggling against Madagascar, but forward Cedric Bakambu is confident in their chances of winning.
Bakambu, who scored a brace in the 2017 qualifier, recalled the match as a 'great' experience, saying, "We had struggled to defeat Madagascar in Kinshasa so it was great to go there and win so convincingly with me scoring twice."
DR Congo, who were part of the pre-tournament outsiders, won Group B, while Madagascar stunned Nigeria with a 2-0 victory.
Madagascar coach Nicolas Dupuis praised his team's performance, saying, "I have been very proud of my players, who have been serious, organised and attentive. There is little I need to tell them."
Forward Faneva Andriatsima acknowledged the team's physical limitations, but emphasized their solidarity and heart as strengths.
DR Congo, who were the comeback side of the group phase, will face Madagascar in the last-16 fixtures this Sunday.
