AFCON 2023: Tuanzebe, Mpanzu out as Desabre announces DR Congo’s final squad

Chancel Mbemba has been named captain of the Democratic Republic of Congo’s 24-man squad for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast, raising hopes for a strong showing from the Leopards.

However, the selection also saw some surprising omissions, including Luton Town striker Pelly-Ruddock Mpanzu, former England U21 defender Axel Tuanzebe, and ex-Fulham midfielder Neeskens Kebano.

Despite these absences, the squad boasts a familiar core with proven experience. The likes of Theo Bongonda, Gael Kakuta, and Cedric Bakambu will be familiar faces to Congolese fans, ready to lead the charge in Group F against Morocco, Tanzania, and Zambia. Their opening match against Zambia in San Pedro on January 17 will be a crucial test of their mettle.

Mbemba’s leadership at the back, alongside defensive stalwarts like Arthur Masuaku and Gedeon Kalulu, will be vital in keeping the Leopards defensively solid. The midfield will be tasked with providing the spark for the attack, with Edo Kayembe and Grady Diangana hoping to orchestrate play and feed ammunition to the likes of Bakambu and Silas Katompa.

The Congolese will have the chance to fine-tune their tactics and build momentum in Abu Dhabi, where they will play two pre-tournament friendlies against Angola and Burkina Faso before heading to Ivory Coast.

Squad Breakdown:

Goalkeepers: Dimitri Bertaud, Lionel Mpasi, Baggio Siadi

Defenders: Dylan Batubinsika, Brian Bayeye, Rocky Bushiri, Henock Inonga, Gedeon Kalulu, Joris Kayembe, Arthur Masuaku, Chancel Mbemba (c)

Midfielders: Theo Bongonda, Grady Diangana, Gael Kakuta, Edo Kayembe, Samuel Moutousamy, Charles Pickel, Aaron Tshibola

Forwards: Simon Banza, Cedric Bakambu, Meschack Elia, Silas Katompa, Fiston Mayele, Yoane Wissa