Leopards: Discover the new talents joining the DRC national football team
The Democratic Republic of Congo national football team welcomes four new faces to its den. These players, Simon Banza, Grady Diangana, Brian Jephete Bayeye and Dimitry Bertaud, were called up for the friendly matches against New Zealand and Angola, as part of the preparation for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the final phase of CAN 2024 in Ivory Coast.
Simon Banza, a 26-year-old striker currently playing for SC Braga in Portugal, has accepted the call-up to the DRC national team for the first time. Trained in Lens in France, Banza strengthens the team’s already talented offensive sector. His young age also gives him the potential to become a key player in the years to come.
Grady Diangana, former England international hopeful, has also decided to represent the DRC at international level. The versatile 25-year-old, who plays as a playmaker or winger for West Bromwich Albion, will bring his creativity and speed to the team’s midfield.
Brian Jephete Bayeye, a 23-year-old right back playing for Torino FC, also recently added the DRC flag to his Instagram account, joining the Congolese national team. Trained in Troyes in France, Bayeye has already gained experience in Italy with loans at Catanzaro and Capri before returning to FC Torino in 2022.
Finally, Dimitry Bertaud, goalkeeper from Montpellier in France, was called up to the DRC national team for the first time. At only 25 years old, Bertaud brings competition in the cages, putting pressure on the usual goalkeeper, Joel Kiassumbwa.
These new recruits offer the DRC national team new options and strengthen the depth of the squad. They bring their talent, experience and passion to represent their home country on the international stage. Leopards fans can’t wait to see these players in action during upcoming friendlies and competitions.
New faces, new hopes for the Congolese national team. The Leopards continue to renew themselves and prepare for future challenges. The passion for Congolese football is more alive than ever, and these players have the potential to write new glorious pages in the history of Congolese football.