2024 Women's AFCON: Everything you need to know about DR Congo

Women's AFCON history

The Democratic Republic of Congo first took part in the Women's AFCON in 1998. On their debut, the Leopards women's team made a real impression by finishing third and taking the bronze medal, including a 4-1 win over Egypt along the way. DR Congo then appeared a second time in 2006 but went out in the first round. This is therefore a return to the continental stage for a country that will now play in its third Women's AFCON finals.

Head coach

Hervé Happy is head coach of the DR Congo women's national team. The French-Cameroonian coach signed a two-year contract in charge of the Leopards women's team only last May. He also works as a technical adviser at the French Football Federation (FFF).

Player to watch

Merveille Kanjinga is DR Congo's player to watch at this Women's Africa Cup of Nations. The 22-year-old forward, nicknamed the "Cyborg" for her power, her pace and her finishing, will be the undisputed star of the Leopards women's team in Morocco. She joined PSG last February, signing until 2027, and ended the season with 2 goals and 4 assists in 9 games. The former TP Mazembe player will be DRC's number 1 weapon.

Related: 2024 Women's AFCON: Everything you need to know about Nigeria, one of the competition favourites

DR Congo's group at the Women's AFCON

DRC have been drawn in Group A of the 2024 Women's AFCON. The Leopards are alongside Morocco, the hosts and runners-up at the last edition, Senegal, quarter-finalists at the previous edition, and Zambia, who won the bronze medal by finishing 3rd at the 2022 edition. It is a very tough group for the Leopards, who will have to raise their game to get out of the first round.

DR Congo's fixtures at the Women's AFCON

Sunday 6 July

14:00: Senegal - DRC

Wednesday 9 July

19:00: DRC - Morocco

Saturday 12 July

19:00: Zambia - DRC