Senegal's French coach Bruno Metsu believes that DR Congo's attacking approach is the major threat as the Dakar Lions meet the Simbas.

"The Simbas have a solid attacking trio," said Metsu.

"This calls for a lot of alert to our defenders."

DR Congo failed to score in either of their first two games, but then smashed three past Togo without reply to blast their way into the quarter-finals.

"Congo play with these three in attack and the remaining eight players pack the midfield and defence, which would make penetration difficult for us," Metsu warned.

After the first round passage of the Congolese, it has become difficult to predict what to expect from the Simbas.

However, Metsu is not leaving anything to chance.

"This is going to be a 50-50 game. But my players are in great shape and they are aware how important it is for us to reach the semi-finals."

"Moreover, reaching the quarter-finals alone has given them a boost."

Senegal qualified within two matches, with 1-0 victories over Egypt and Zambia, but were criticised within their own camp by Salif Diao, who said they failed to play well as a team.

Metsu says he acknowledges this and will incorporate it into his tactics.

Favourites

"Against DR Congo we would try to play more collectively. We hadn't played like that in our group matches," he revealed.

For their part, DR Congo are aware that Senegal are favourites, but he does not want to down play the Simbas' chances.

"There are no small teams in the competition any more," argues Congolese coach Watunda Iyolo.

"Everybody plays to go as far as possible. Senegal are a good side and we are ready to play football with them," said Iyolo, who led the Congolese to bronze medal four years ago in Burkina Faso.