AFCON: Youssouf Mulumbu warns DR Congo: “There are no small teams in Africa”

Former DR Congo captain Youssouf Mulumbu has warned his national team to prepare adequately for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) in Morocco insisting “there are no small teams” in the tournament.

The Leopards have been drawn to face Benin, Botswana and Senegal in the tournament set for Morocco in December. Discussing the group, Mulumbu said DR Congo had a point to prove against the Lions of Teranga.

DR Congo have point to prove against Senegal

“We have a point to prove against the Teranga Lions—always in the right spirit, of course. First, congratulations to Senegal for qualifying for the World Cup; it’s deserved. That match will be a symbolic rematch,” Mulumbu, who captained  the Leopards at the 2015 AFCON, told CAFOnline.com.

“We matched them during qualifying. Benin narrowly missed qualification, but if they led their group for so long, it shows their quality. All African teams have progressed and professionalised.

“We must be wary of Benin, Botswana—everyone. There are no more “small teams” in Africa. And at the last AFCON, few expected Congo to shine. We showed up. I think the AFCON in Morocco will be a confirmation tournament for this group.”

Congo players motivated and want to make amends

On what Congo needs to do to reach the final, he said: “Mentality! We must convince ourselves we are at the same level as the continent’s giants and that we can go and win AFCON. Not reaching the semi-finals in the years before the last AFCON unsettled us a bit.

“The team changed a lot and rebuilt. But today, coach Desabre has done huge work. We almost have the same core as at the last AFCON. The players are motivated and want to make amends for that elimination. Tactically and offensively, we have arguments. Now we need to strengthen the mental and psychological aspect.”

On DR Congo’s strengths for the AFCON, Mulumbu said: “Our defensive solidity—we concede very little. And that verve, that festive football that has always defined Congo.

“We’ve had artists like Trésor Mputu, Mbokani or Matumona Roum. Today, we have players like Yoane Wissa or Cédric Bakambu. It’s up to the coach to give them the freedom to express themselves.”

The Leopards will start their campaign against Benin on December 23.

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