Congolese football is on the move with the release of the list of players selected by DRC Leopards coach Sébastien Desabre to face Sudan’s Nile Crocodiles on the final day of Africa Cup qualifiers des Nations 2023. Among the 27 players called up, we note the absence of certain regulars of the selection.
First of all, Joel Kiassumbwa, the goalkeeper, will not be in the game. Suspended during the last match against Gabon, he would also be injured and currently has no club. However, Desabre hasn’t ruled out Kiassumbwa’s possible return in the future.
Another notable absence is that of Dieumerci Mukoko Amale, the right-back. An indisputable starter for some time, he is paying the price for not having found a club since leaving Difaa El Jadida in Morocco. He will have to stay at home alongside Jordan Ikoko and Gedeon Kalulu.
Midfielder Aaron Tshibola, who scored in the game against Gabon, will also be absent. He is suspended for the game against Sudan due to two yellow cards received in the last two meetings.
Despite these absences, the Congolese national team is actively preparing for this crucial match which will be played in Kinshasa. After this meeting, the Leopards will travel to South Africa to face the Bafana Bafana in a friendly match on September 12. The objective is to prepare as well as possible for the next deadlines, in particular the qualifications for the 2026 World Cup.
In conclusion, although some regular players of the selection will not be present in the next match against Sudan, the Leopards team remains determined to obtain a victory and to pursue its ambitions on the international scene