The DR Congo were not expected to reach the last four of the AFCON. This was especially true after a slow qualifying campaign that ended with a bang. This seems to have strengthened the group's cohesion and ambitions. The DR Congo had always had a very good squad, but in recent years had disappointed in Africa's biggest soccer competition. But for the AFCON in Côte d'Ivoire, the Leopards, in the image of their symbol, are aggressive and determined on the pitch. Focus on Mbemba-Moutoussamy and Wissa, who can be seen as the pillars of the squad.
At AFCON 2023, the Congolese are scolding, cornering and not giving up. In short, they have a good understanding and a convincing game. Their arrival at this level is amply deserved. Quite apart from their warrior attributes, they have a quality squad, great solidarity and a host of individual talents to back them up and as with any pack, there are leaders, remarkable identities who pull the rest of the group towards the top.
In the case of Congo Kinshasa, 3 players, one in each line, put in a monster tournament and can be seen as the backbone of the team. They are Chancel Mbemba, captain and central defender.Then there's Samuel Moutoussamy, defensive midfielder.And finally, striker Yoane Wissa.
Chancel Mbemba: The prophet on a mission
There's a lot of talk in soccer about the need for a good defensive foundation if you want to win. This is certainly true of Congo, whose defense is one of the main reasons for their current success. They have conceded just 4 goals since the start of the competition. The Kalulu-Mbemba pair is no stranger to this solidity. Mbemba's performances have been particularly impressive, with his commitment bordering on the trance-like on the pitch. He is undoubtedly the team's leader.He's uncompromising in defence and ultra-communicative on the pitch. He's a changed man, barking his head off on the pitch, not sparing team-mates, opponents or referees.
Beyond his influence on the pitch, he transmits good vibes and concerns his team-mates at all times during matches. His equalising goal against Guinea is indicative of his positive impact. He has redeemed himself, having been at fault for the opening goal from the penalty spot. But the prophet on a mission seems to be inhabited by a superior force in this tournament. Full of pedagogy, zeal and aware of his mission. He is the most involved on the pitch, as the designated example (captain). He repeats his message unceasingly, with the result we all know.
Samuel Moutoussamy: The Congolese barrier
Samuel Moutoussamy is captain Chancel Mbemba's perfect lieutenant. He runs the front line in midfield. He performs his role to perfection. Moutoussamy never stops working hard, picking up countless balls. He coordinates the sentry role with Charles Pickel. He makes endless runs, as if he never gets tired. Samuel's face is always firm, as if to say there's no time for joking around during the match and the results are there.
Yoane Wissa: A ball of energy
Alongside Mbemba and Moutoussamy, the team's backbone is completed by left-winger Yoane Wissa.His commitment to the team was already evident in his pre-AFCON statements. "I absolutely have to take part.Samuel Eto'o, Didier Drogba and Yaya Touré were all great players playing for the biggest clubs in Europe, but representing their countries," he said. Having achieved his objective, he is now in the midst of an exceptional competition, both technically and in terms of energy expenditure. The player gives his all in every match.
As a result, he puts a lot of pressure on opposing defences. This outpouring of energy often costs him lucidity when it comes to finishing. He already has two goals to his credit, including the penalty that gave him the lead against Guinea. Another image, symptomatic of his willingness to put in the effort, is his call to order to Simon Banza when he came on against Guinea, who was responding to provocation.Everyone saw Wissa's blow to Banza, irreproachable in almost every respect. He has rarely been so effective for either club or country, and also helps a great deal with his defensive lapses. He knows what's at stake at the competition and shows that he wants to win it. His AFCON is simply top-class.
The DRC will certainly need its 3 warriors to reach the AFCON final. The semi-final against Côte d'Ivoire takes place this Wednesday, February 7 at 20:00 GMT.
🎙️ | Chancel Mbemba Mangulu est le capitaine et le leader qu’il pense être.
C’est Sébastien Desabre qui l’a dit. 🤫#ToyeCAN | #mobulute🐆 pic.twitter.com/Ah2ZQW7ojW
— Joueurs Congolais 🐆🇨🇩 (@JoueursCD) February 6, 2024
