Africa Cup of Nations 2013: Le Roy thrilled with Congo comeback

Democratic Republic of Congo manager Claude Le Roy came out in praise of his players after their two-goal fight-back to draw against tournament favourites Ghana.

In a thrilling Group B opener, the Leopards went two down after goals from Emmanuel Agyemang Badu and Kwadwo Asamoah either side of half-time.

Yet LeRoy’s side pulled two back through Tresor Mputu and Dieumerci Mbokani – the second from a penalty – leaving the manager singing his team’s praises.

“This match was a great advertisement for African football,” said LeRoy.

“I’m proud of my players – they have great quality and they showed it by coming back to a high level competition like the Africa Cup after a seven-year absence.

“We deserved this result after all the problems we had and I hope that it will get the whole country behind the team now.”

Following today’s result, DR Congo now go into their next match against Mali knowing qualification for the next phase is still a distinct possibility.

But Ghana boss Akwasi Appiah was left disappointed by the result, arguing that though DR Congo were tricky opponents, it was still disappointing Ghana could not hold onto their advantage.

Appiah – once LeRoy’s assistant at the Black Stars – felt his side needed to improve if they were to do well in their next game against Niger.

“I knew this match would not be easy, but it was unfortunate we did not win our first game,” he said.

“We relaxed and we suffered from some tactical indiscipline, which we must correct in our next game.”