DR Congo head coach Otis N’Goma has expressed his displeasure over the conduct of Kenya’s coach, Benni McCarthy, accusing him of ‘spying’ on his team’s training sessions ahead of their 2024 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) clash.
The Leopards will take on the Harambee Stars in their Group A opener at Kasarani Stadium on Sunday, following the tournament’s kickoff in Tanzania, where hosts Taifa Stars defeated Burkina Faso 2-0 at the Benjamin Mkapa Stadium on Friday.
“Kenya sent spies to watch our training and preparations, and that is not fair,” N’Goma told the press.
“I know Benni from our time in London. We used to meet and watch games together, so I understand how Kenya likes to play. We’ll do our best to win.”
Despite the controversy, N’Goma remained confident: “We came here to compete. Kenya is a big nation, they are playing at home, but we do not feel any pressure. At a high level, there is no pressure. With two titles already, we will approach the match with respect as we aim for a third star.”
On his team’s ambitions, he added: “We’ve had only a few weeks to prepare, which isn’t ideal, but we are professionals. Step by step, our goal is to reach the final. The last edition was disappointing, but we are mentally ready even if physically we are not yet at our best.”
DR Congo, who have featured in seven CHAN editions (2009, 2011, 2014, 2016, 2020, 2022, 2024), will be eager to start their campaign on a high.
