With lots of history in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) highlighted by two crowns won, the Leopard of DR Congo will be out to reclimb the summit of African football as it last did 50 years ago.
By Efosa Taiwo
With lots of history in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) highlighted by two crowns won, the Leopard of DR Congo will be out to reclimb the summit of African football as it last did 50 years ago.
Boasting of a fairly decent squad, the Sebastien Desabre side will fancy their chances of being among the underdogs capable of springing surprises against the ‘Big Boys’ of the competition.
Paired with favourites Morocco, former champions Zambia and East African nation, Tanzania, getting out of this group should come easy for the Leopards.
Coach
Desabre was so eager to join the DR Congo that he willingly abandoned his contract with Ligue 2 club Chamois Niortais to take over the Leopards.
Since his hiring, the Frenchman has managed 10 games, bringing the squad to an astonishing five victories.
He also led the Congolese national team to qualification for AFCON 2023, and he had previously claimed that he was prepared to deal with the strain of the role.
Star Player
The DR Congo will rely on Fiston Mayele‘s talent when they travel to the Ivory Coast for AFCON 2023.
The 29-year-old striker is the team’s leading scorer, having played an important role in the qualifiers.
Despite making his international debut at the age of 28, Mayele has taken advantage of the opportunity, scoring two goals in eight caps, and will play a vital role in the Leopards’ AFCON campaign.
Rising Star
Silas Mvumpa started football at the age of 12 when his skills were discovered for greatness by Black Mountain Sport academy.
Ever since then, Mvumpa has climbed heights to the point where he finds himself one of the dangerous attackers for DR Congo.
The Stuttgart attacker adds to the incredible cast of DR Congo fiery attack, and defenders must be wary of his artistry.
Fixtures
DR Congo vs Zambia – January 17, 2024
Morocco vs DR Congo – January 21, 2024
Tanzania vs DR Congo – January 24, 2024
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