The Leopards A’ of the Democratic Republic of Congo are actively preparing to face the Sao of Chad in the qualifiers for the 2025 African Nations Championship. The list of 24 players selected by coach Otis Ngoma Kondi was recently unveiled, sparking intrigue and anticipation among Congolese fans.
This selection is distinguished by its innovative character, welcoming new faces and making room for youth. Only two players who participated in the previous edition are keeping their places, Siadi Baggio and Jonathan Ikangalombo. This complete overhaul of the team demonstrates the desire of the technical staff to renew the squad and build on the recent performances of the players during the training camp in Kinshasa.
Otis Ngoma finds himself at the head of a team in reconstruction, determined to erase the previous failure in Algeria. DRC’s poor performance in the previous competition, marked by an early elimination and a lack of goals scored, left a bitter taste among the fans and the management. However, confidence remains in the Congolese coach, who is being offered a chance at redemption.
The list of players called up presents an interesting mix of young talents and more experienced elements, thus offering a range of tactical possibilities for the national team. The competition against Sao of Chad promises to be a real test for this new generation of Leopards, called upon to regain their place among the greats of African football.
The stakes are high for Otis Ngoma and his players, who will be keen to restore the DRC’s image and regain the trust of the fans. The upcoming match in Abidjan represents an ideal opportunity to make an impression and revive the team’s positive momentum. It remains to be seen whether this new composition will give wings to the Leopards A’ and propel them to new heights in the continental competition.