TotalEnergies CAF AFCON 2025: Know Your Team: DR Congo
The Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) are gearing up for their 19th appearance at the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), carrying the weight of their illustrious history and the ambition to reclaim continental glory.
With two AFCON titles to their name (1968 and 1974) and a strong fourth-place finish in 2023, DR Congo enters the 2025 tournament with renewed hope and high expectations.
Under the astute leadership of Sébastien Desabre, DR Congo combines tactical discipline with attacking flair, making them one of the teams to watch in Morocco.
Players like Yoane Wissa, who have already left their mark on the continental stage, will be pivotal in their quest for a third AFCON title.
Fact file
- Nickname: The Leopards
- AFCON Appearances: 19
- Best Performance: Winners (1968, 1974)
- FIFA Ranking: 61 (January 2025)
How They Got There
DR Congo topped Group H in the qualifiers with 12 points, securing their place at AFCON 2025 with a commanding 2-0 victory over Tanzania on Matchday 4. Their consistent performances throughout the campaign underscored their determination to compete at the highest level.
The Coach: Sébastien Desabre
French tactician Sébastien Desabre has transformed DR Congo into a formidable force since taking over in 2023. Known for his meticulous approach, Desabre’s strategy blends defensive solidity with swift transitions and attacking creativity.
His coaching philosophy emphasizes teamwork and discipline, as he explained in an interview: “Modern football demands a perfect balance between defensive organization and offensive fluidity. This is the message I instill in my players.”
Desabre’s African coaching pedigree includes a successful stint with Uganda, where he led the Cranes to the AFCON 2019 quarter-finals. Since joining DR Congo, his results in qualifiers have solidified his reputation as a master tactician capable of maximizing the potential of his squad.
Player to Watch: Yoane Wissa
At 28 years old, Yoane Wissa is one of DR Congo’s most influential players. His stellar performances at AFCON 2023 earned him a place in the Team of the Tournament, and he is set to play a crucial role again in 2025.
Wissa’s explosive pace and ability to exploit defensive gaps make him a nightmare for defenders. A skilled finisher with a lethal left foot, Wissa excels in counterattacking scenarios, often turning defense into attack with his speed and precision.
As Brentford’s all-time top scorer with 37 goals, Wissa’s club success highlights his consistency and ability to perform under pressure. His leadership on the pitch will be essential as DR Congo seeks to replicate their past triumphs.
Past Performances
DR Congo’s AFCON legacy is steeped in glory and resilience. Their two titles in 1968 and 1974 remain iconic, with the latter victory marking their dominance as they defeated Mali 2-0 in the final.
Following their golden era, the Leopards faced challenging times but have shown flashes of brilliance in recent decades. In 2015, they finished third, defeating hosts Equatorial Guinea 4-2 in the bronze medal match. Their journey to the semi-finals in 2023 further showcased their competitiveness, despite losing narrowly to eventual champions Côte d’Ivoire.
Did You Know?
DR Congo’s head coach Sébastien Desabre led the team to an impressive eight consecutive victories from March 2023 to November 2024, before their unbeaten streak was broken by Guinea in the qualifiers.
With a rich history, a talented squad, and a visionary coach, DR Congo heads into TotalEnergies CAF AFCON Morocco 2025 ready to make a serious impact and strive for a third continental crown.