### End of season anticipated for Linafoot: issues and perspectives
Monday, June 16, 2025, during a meeting in Kinshasa, the Standardization Committee (CONOR) of the Congolese Football Federation (FECOFA) made a crucial decision concerning the National Football Championship, LINAFOOT. Members agreed that the play-off phase would be closed on June 26, resulting in certain repercussions at the end of the 2024-2025 season. While three days were still to be played, this decision raises questions about short and long -term implications for Congolese football.
#### A choice dictated by calendar imperatives
The decision to reserve an early conclusion to the play-offs does not seem to be taken lightly. The football calendar is often severely constrained by several factors, such as the interclub competitions of the African Football Confederation (CAF), which force the national leagues to align with specific deadlines. In this context, the need to establish a solid classification before continental competitions for Congolese clubs has undoubtedly weighed in the balance. The classification made on June 26 will determine the qualified teams, a major issue in an environment where investments, both human and financial, are substantial.
#### A high voltage sprint
As this end of the season approaches, the calendar of the last three days promises to be exciting. Several direct confrontations between teams claiming African places should ensure breathtaking suspense. The opening match between CS Don Bosco and FC Saint Éloi Lupopo sets the tone, followed by expected shocks such as TP Mazembe against As Maniema Union and the Kinois derby between DCMP and AS Vita Club.
However, this density of matches within a reduced period raises legitimate concerns. The health and well-being of players are essential considerations. How will the teams and their frames ensure optimal management of this intensity? Players are often under pressure and the risk of injury increases with an increased workload. On the other hand, the possibility of injustice in the final classification, resulting from such a condensed calendar, cannot be ignored.
#### consequences to consider
Beyond immediate sporting issues, this decision could have repercussions on the very structure of football in the Democratic Republic of Congo. Clubs must not only browse these temporary constraints, but also think about long -term strategies to improve calendar management and competitions.
The absence of inclusive dialogues with stakeholders, such as clubs, coaches, players and supporters, could lead to a climate of dissatisfaction and frustration. How can we guarantee that the voice of all Congolese football players be heard in this decision -making process?
#### to a sustainable and inclusive future
The challenges are numerous and complex, but they also open the door to an in -depth reflection. For Congolese football to progress, it would be beneficial to establish a regular discussion framework between Fecofa, Linafoot and clubs. This could better balance competitive imperatives with the well-being of players, the satisfaction of supporters and the integrity of competitions.
The implementation of a calendar management system, taking into account local realities and international requirements, could promote more harmonious seasons. Why not also consider a platform for exchanging ideas and good practices between African leagues? This could strengthen solidarity within African football while making it possible to envisage innovative solutions.
#### Conclusion
The decision to anticipately close the phase of the play-offs of Linafoot reflects complex circumstances and multiple issues. If the end of the season is about to be overwhelming, it could also serve as a catalyst for a necessary reform in the management of Congolese football. By adopting a collaborative approach and placing dialogue at the heart of governance, it is possible to trace a path to a future where football, beyond the results, is a vector of development and social cohesion. The coming months will be decisive for football in the DRC, both on the field and outside.