The Leopards of the DRC fly to CAN 2024: a journey full of determination and mobilization
This Friday, January 12, the Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) flew to San Pedro in Ivory Coast, where the 2024 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) will take place. A chartered flight was specially organized for the departure of the Congolese national team, which benefited from nine days of intense preparation before the major sporting event.
Unfortunately, one player had to withdraw from this trip. Edo Kayembe, injured in the calf, will not be able to join his teammates in Ivory Coast. He will be replaced by Omenuke Mfulu from Las Palmas. Despite this absence, the team remains determined and ready to face the challenges that will present themselves.
The Congolese selection will be based in San Pedro during the competition, where it will play its Group F matches. The first match is scheduled for January 17 against Zambia. The DRC will share this group with Tanzania, Morocco and Zambia, in a competition which promises to be undeniably tough.
Before departure, a symbolic moment took place. The president of FECOFA, Dieudonné Sambi, presented Captain Chancel Mbemba with the country’s flag and a pennant, in the name of Head of State Félix-Antoine Tshisekedi. This award represents the mobilization of an entire nation behind the Leopards and their fight during this CAN. Chancel Mbemba, as captain of the team, promised to fly the country’s colors high and defend the national colors with honor.
This mobilization is not limited only to those on the ground. In Kinshasa, the Minister of Sports François Claude Kabulo met the different groups of supporters and support structures for the Leopards. On this occasion, symbolic jerseys were given to supporters, who will proudly wear them during national team matches. This mobilization demonstrates the importance of football in the DRC and the enthusiasm that the competition arouses among supporters.
This participation in CAN 2024 is a crucial moment for the DRC. The Leopards will be keen to show their talent, their determination and their team spirit. The supporters will be behind them, ready to encourage and support them throughout this sporting adventure. The DRC has all the weapons to shine during this competition and write a new page in its footballing history.
Stay tuned to follow the performances of the DRC Leopards during CAN 2024 and support them in their quest for victory! Football is a sport that brings people together, a sport that transcends borders, and we will all be united behind our national team!