UNIFFAC U20: Shungu names DR Congo’s 25-player squad for Yaoundé

Raoul Jean-Pierre Shungu has selected 25 players for the UNIFFAC U20 tournament that serves as a qualifying competition for the Africa Cup of Nations. FECOFA published DR Congo’s men’s squad on Friday, 9 October, ahead of the competition in Yaoundé, Cameroon, whose opening is announced for 12 October. The list identifies the group selected to pursue qualification through the Central African zone.

The squad contains three goalkeepers, eight defenders, six midfielders and eight forwards. The federation document gives a club for each player; these are the affiliations printed in the announcement, rather than an independent check of current registration. The group includes players listed with AS Vita Club, Novakin FC and Ufalya Simba, alongside others named with Mamelodi Sundowns, TS Galaxy and Azam Football Club.

Goalkeepers: Ngambelo Kalunga Ismaël, Ramazani Egbwende Barthez, Mambote Mandia Hugo.

Defenders: Bumba Moaso Antoine, Ngamba Atiso Sernat, Jilomba Lossami Samuel, Nsembani Luyaku Syrien, Mamona Mayeko Jephté, Kambale Kahindo Romain, Mongombe Mosali Rolland, Nkiawete Fizayi Dimitri.

Midfielders: Bwanondo Caleb Caleb, Makoko Bishweka Kevin, Bwalya Tshikanzu Josué Paul, Iluku Makani Chris, Ilese Kolonga Caleb, Umba Kasongo Henock.

Forwards: Masiala Muanda Jordy, Eboma Ferreira Winner, Kalombo Monga Wigens, Massey Kabundi Paul, Ilinga Bodinosa Prefi, Ilunga Akuba Immole, Mutombo Lufungula Dieu Merci, Kaya Rabangu Elie.

The draw reported by FECOFA on 5 October places DR Congo in Group B with Gabon and Congo, which is distinct from the Democratic Republic of the Congo. The Leopards’ opening match is announced against Gabon on Monday, 12 October at 16:00 at Ahmadou Ahidjo Stadium. Their second fixture is listed against Congo on Sunday, 18 October at 16:00 at the same stadium. These are the times published by the federation.

Friday’s squad announcement is a new development after the group and opening fixtures were announced. It concerns only the men’s under-20 team and does not change either the senior or U23 selection. A call-up does not establish a match appearance; starting teams and results will need confirmation when the tournament begins.