Fatshimetrie is the result of in-depth and meticulous research on the long-awaited duel between TP Mazembe and FC Saint Éloi Lupopo that will be held at the Frédéric Kibasa Maliba stadium this Sunday, October 20. This derby, long marked by a fierce and legendary rivalry, takes on a special dimension this year. Indeed, the “Ravens” of Mazembe are looking to revive after a tumultuous start to the season.
TP Mazembe’s recent results have not lived up to expectations. With two consecutive draws in the league, the team led by Lamine Ndiaye seems to be showing signs of stagnation. Nevertheless, despite the difficulties encountered, the “Blacks and Whites” continue their reconstruction process, moving forward slowly but surely. Their qualification for the knockout stages of the Champions League is a positive sign that all hope is not lost for this team.
The departures of several key players have left their mark on the TP Mazembe squad. The loss of Fily Traoré, the club’s and Ligue 1’s top scorer the previous season with 25 goals, had a significant impact on the team’s offensive efficiency. Added to this are the departures of Glody Likonza, Philippe Kizumbi, Joël Beya and Kevin, pillars of the team last season, both in the league and in the Champions League. This loss has undoubtedly affected the team’s performance, which is struggling to regain its past momentum.
Historically, out of the 184 derbies between TP Mazembe and FC Saint Éloi Lupopo, it is the “Lumpas” who dominate with 65 victories against 59 for Mazembe. However, if we focus on the more recent period from 2011 to 2024, TP Mazembe has established itself as the master of the derby with 12 wins, 14 draws and only one defeat against Lupopo. This evolution clearly demonstrates a change in the balance of power between the two teams.
In a press conference before the match, Lamine Ndiaye tried to put his team’s current situation into perspective. He stressed the importance of maintaining a positive and constructive attitude with a view to the future. Despite the current difficulties, Ndiaye remains confident in his team’s ability to bounce back. He insists that qualifying for the Champions League is proof that the team still has quality and that this is more of a transition period than a bad patch.
In short, the duel between TP Mazembe and FC Saint Éloi Lupopo promises to be intense and emotional. The stakes are high for both teams, and each will be keen to win the three points at stake. This will not only be a football match, but also a symbolic confrontation between two legendary clubs in Congolese football. Passion, commitment and fair play will be on display, offering spectators a captivating perspective of this highly anticipated derby.