LuaLua expects tough battle

DR Congo striker Lomana Lualua says that his team will give their all as they play away to Malawi on Saturday in their final Group 12 2010 World Cup and Africa Cup of Nations qualifier.

A 1-0 defeat at home to Egypt in their last match leaves the Leopards fighting with Malawi for a best runners-up spot.

"It's going to be a hard game, but only victory is on our minds. Malawi are a good team, and they're playing at home," LuaLua told BBC Sport.

"We're still happy, it's not like Egypt are an easy team. Now we're trying to bounce back, and this game is so important for us.

"After missing the 2008 Nations Cup in Ghana, we want to make this one."

DR Congo qualified for eight successive editions of the Nations Cup finals before failing to reach the 2008 tournament.

Malawi's one and only appearance was in 1984.

To have a strong chance of taking one of the slots reserved for the eight best second-placed teams, only a win will do for DR Congo.

Likewise, victory for Malawi should send them through to the second phase.

Lualua missed the game against Egypt, as he was injured.

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