The Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) are actively preparing for their next match against the Crocodiles of the Nile of Sudan, as part of the qualifiers for the 2023 African Cup of Nations. The French coach, Sébastien Desabre, has recently unveiled its list of 27 players selected for this decisive meeting.
However, some names have been conspicuously absent from this list. Goalkeeper Joel Kiassumbwa, defender Dieumerci Mukolo Amale, midfielder Aaron Tshibola and striker Glody Lilepo Makabi are not among the players called up. So what explains their absence?
For Joel Kiassumbwa, Desabre said the Congolese goalkeeper was injured. Moreover, he currently doesn’t have any clubs which could also be a reason for his absence from the selection. However, this does not rule out Kiassumbwa’s possible return in the future.
Dieumerci Mukolo Amale, usually a starter, is also absent from the list. This absence is explained by the fact that Amale has not found a club since leaving Difaa El Jadida in Morocco. A similar situation concerns Glody Lilepo Makabi, who had been without a club for some time. Luckily, Makabi recently signed with Valenciennes in France, which gives him new opportunities.
As for Aaron Tshibola, who scored in the previous match against Gabon, he is suspended for the match against Sudan. He received two yellow cards in the last meetings, which automatically leads to a suspension.
The Leopards will have to play their home match in Kinshasa before traveling to South Africa for a friendly match against Bafana Bafana. This last game will serve as preparation for the upcoming 2026 World Cup qualifying project.
The list of players selected by Sébastien Desabre testifies to his desire to compose a strong and competitive team to face Sudan. Despite notable absences, the Leopards are determined to secure victory and qualify for the next African Cup of Nations. Their journey will be followed closely by Congolese football fans and fans