Tonny Talasi: “Expect a 200% Talasi against Zambia”
At just 20 years old, Tonny Talasi is living what could be the most pivotal year of his young career. After standing out with the DR Congo U20s during the TotalEnergies CAF U-20 Africa Cup of Nations Egypt 2025, the forward is now stepping into a whole new realm of African football at the TotalEnergies African Nations Championship (CHAN) PAMOJA 2024—a tournament reserved exclusively for players active in their national leagues.
Coming off the bench in DR Congo’s opening day defeat to Kenya, Talasi is experiencing firsthand the leap between age-group football and senior-level continental competition.
“In the U20s, I was one of the leaders. Here, I’m one of the youngest. But this tournament pushes me to go beyond my limits,” he told CAFOnline. “I wanted to make my family proud. Wearing this jersey is a responsibility.”
As he looks ahead to DR Congo’s crucial second group game against Zambia, the striker is determined to make a difference and sharpen his finishing. “My role is to be decisive—to score and create chances for the team. If the coach gives me his trust, expect a 200% Talasi out there,” he promises.
Below is the full interview with Tonny Talasi:
You played in the U20 AFCON with DR Congo earlier this year. What did that experience teach you about yourself and your game?
That tournament taught me a lot, both personally and professionally. I had to face players from different African football schools, each with their own styles. It forced me to adapt quickly, improve my football IQ, and learn how to handle key moments in matches. I realized how vital concentration is, especially during decisive phases. Even though I wasn't at my physical peak, I experienced what top-level football demands, and that helped me grow—both mentally and on the pitch.
How did your U20 experience help prepare you for CHAN?
It especially built me up mentally. Wearing the national shirt—even at youth level—already comes with big responsibility. At the U20 AFCON, I learned to perform under pressure and never relax, even after a good game. I also learned how important it is to constantly self-assess. Now at CHAN, I’m trying to maintain that consistency, to stay focused in every training session, and to be resilient. Those values help me manage expectations and rise to the occasion when needed.
You’ve gone from youth football to senior competition. What are the biggest differences you've noticed?
With the U20s, I had a certain status—I was one of the group’s leaders. Here, I’m one of the youngest, and I have to earn my place again, prove myself in every session. The physical intensity is much higher, everything moves faster. Tactically, the margin for error is smaller—one wrong move can cost a goal. You have to be smarter in how you play, more mature in your decisions. This tournament teaches humility, but also pushes me to give everything.
This is your first CHAN. How are you experiencing it so far?
It’s a huge honour—and also a personal challenge. CHAN is a unique opportunity to make a name for myself in Africa while serving my country. When I heard I was called up, I felt a mix of excitement and responsibility. Representing DR Congo at this level has been a childhood dream. And the fact that the tournament is being held in East Africa, not too far from home, makes it even more special. I’m enjoying every moment, but I’m staying focused on what matters: helping the team go as far as possible.
You came off the bench against Kenya. What was that moment like for you? Who did you think about when stepping onto the pitch?
It was an emotional moment. When the coach called me to come on, I felt the pressure, but also a massive surge of motivation. On the pitch, I just focused on giving my best. But deep down, I was thinking about my family—my parents and loved ones who’ve always supported me, even during tough times. I wanted to make them proud. Even though the match didn’t end as we’d hoped, I gave it my all to honour this shirt and honour them.
Despite the loss to Kenya, what’s the team’s goal for the tournament?
Our goal hasn’t changed: we want to go as far as possible. One defeat doesn’t change everything—in fact, it pushes us to work even harder with humility. We’re taking it one match at a time, step by step. There’s a lot of talent in this group, and a real desire to succeed together. We’ve reviewed what went wrong against Kenya, and we’re determined to bounce back in the next match.
How would you describe the team spirit?
The atmosphere is really positive. It’s a proper Congolese vibe—that’s one of our strengths. There’s respect, solidarity, and a lot of support. Even those who aren’t playing give everything to back up their teammates. It’s like a big family. Of course, we have fun—jokes, music—but when training starts, everyone’s locked in. That unity is our strength and gives us extra energy.
Is there a teammate you’re particularly close to?
Yes, without hesitation—Ibrahim Matobo. We’ve known each other since the youth teams. We’ve done many camps together, and that bond just developed naturally—on and off the pitch. He’s someone I can talk to freely, who understands me quickly, and we share the same vision of the game. That relationship helps me feel more confident, especially in key moments. He’s a great support in the squad.
What aspect of your game are you currently working on most?
I’m really focused on improving my finishing. As a striker, people expect me to make a difference in the final third. So I work on my shooting, my decision-making in the box, staying calm in front of goal. I also watch a lot of video to study my movement and learn how to position myself better. I want to become a more complete striker—one who can bring solutions, even in tough matches. Consistency is what will take me to the next level.
Next up is Zambia. What can we expect from you?
If the coach decides to put me on—either as a sub or a starter—I’ll give it my all. Expect a 200% Talasi. This match is crucial for us, and I’m ready to step up. I know every minute on the pitch matters. Whether it’s a goal, an assist, a run, or tracking back, I want to contribute to the team. Zambia is a strong side, but we’ve got our own strengths too. Personally, I feel ready, motivated, and fully committed.
And looking further ahead, what are your personal ambitions?
This has been an intense year, full of opportunities. I’ve had interest from top clubs in North Africa and in DR Congo. My goal is clear: to keep progressing at club level, then make the leap to Europe. I want to play in demanding environments, discover new playing styles, and raise my game.
Right now, my full focus is on CHAN. It’s a crucial step—a real springboard I want to take full advantage of. But beyond this competition and club football, I also want to earn a place in the senior national team. Playing in the senior AFCON, in World Cups—that’s what I’m working toward with full determination.
I know there’s a long road ahead, and a lot of work to be done, but I believe that willpower, discipline, and a love for the game will be my best allies in reaching my goals.
If you had a message for young Congolese players watching you today, what would it be?
I’d tell them to believe in themselves and never give up—even when times get tough. Talent is important, but it’s not enough. You need real discipline, a clean lifestyle, and above all, respect—for coaches, teammates, and the shirt. You’ve got to be brave enough to self-reflect. Nothing comes easy, but if you work hard with honesty and passion, the doors will eventually open.