Libya v DR Congo – Battle of former Champions

When Libya faces DR Congo at Japoma Stadium in Douala on Thursday 21 January 2021, there will be three CHAN trophies on the pitch.

The Group B match of Total African Nations Championship, Cameroon 2020 is surely an eyecatcher, as both sides have history backing them to be among the favorites.

Libya Mediterranean Knights will seek nothing but a victory against group leaders DR Congo, who managed a 1-0 victory over neighbors Congo in the group opener, while Libya had a barren stalemate against Niger. A win for the Congolese will see the Leopards securing their place in the quarterfinals.

"Against Niger my players gave their all on the pitch for 90 minutes”, Libya coach Zoran Filipovic said. “It was intense and both teams created several chances.”

Filipovic blamed the lack of competitive games as he believed his side can still do it to the next round. “In Libya the players have not played for several months because of the situation. But we used that time to work on the tactics. We have to give our best and I believe in my team's chances of qualifying,” added the Croat.

Meanwhile, DR Congo coach Florent Ibenge encouraged his players mentioning "we are 90 minutes away from qualifying."

Ibenge who led The Leopards to the title in 2016 pledged full trust in his side. “We are one group, and we play with a lot of joy. I trust my squad despite there might be some absences.”

Ibenge returned to coach DR Congo after stepping down following the 2016 glory. “On a personal level, this is an area that I love and enjoy doing. What is beautiful about this job is to give joy,” he added.

DR Congo lead the pack with three points, two more than Libya and Niger, while Congo trails the pool pointless.

Libya won CHAN title in 2014, while DR Congo won the maiden 2009 edition's title, before adding another in 2016.