Tshinkunku FC: Losing financial speed, the Corbeaux club in danger
The legendary Kananga football club, Tshinkunku FC, is facing serious financial difficulties which threaten its future. Since the start of the 2023-2024 season, the club has had difficulty paying its League entry fees. This situation led the Black and White team to lose a match on the green carpet, thus adding additional pressure on the already struggling team. Alerted by the critical situation of the club, the governor of Kasaï-Central, John Kabeya Shikayi, intervened by paying the entry fees on behalf of the province. An emergency measure which underlines the scale of the financial problem facing the club.
Aside from unpaid signing fees, Tshinkunku FC faces other financial problems, including lack of funding from club president Alexis Kayembe, who is currently abroad due to health reasons. The club’s vice-president, Berly Beya, was also forced to reduce his financial contribution, worsening the already precarious situation. Construction work on a club’s own stadium was also halted due to lack of funds.
This financial crisis is having a direct impact on the team, with players boycotting some training sessions due to uncertainty over the club’s participation in Linafoot this season. However, the leaders managed to convince the players to return to training, but the situation remains worrying.
Faced with this critical situation, the call for help was launched to supporters and possible benefactors in order to come to the aid of the Ravens club. However, so far the appeals have not produced the expected results.
Returning to the first division after a season in Ligue 2, Tshinkunku FC finds itself faced with internal problems which jeopardize its future. With the new Linafoot rules, the club may have to fight not only on the pitch, but also off it, to ensure its survival. The next match against TP Mazembe will be a real test for the struggling team.
The precarious financial situation Tshinkunku FC finds itself in highlights the challenges many Congolese football clubs face. Despite the passion and talent of the players, the lack of financial support and adequate infrastructure continues to weigh on the development of Congolese football.
In conclusion, it is crucial that steps are taken to provide sustainable financial support to Congolese football clubs, in order to preserve the future of this much-loved sport in the country. The Ravens of Tshinkunku, once bearers of glory, deserve a chance to get back up and regain their place among the greats of Congolese football.