DR Congo: Linafoot sanctions push TP Mazembe out of top three

DR Congo’s top flight league has sanctioned TP Mazembe with two forfeits as the Linafoot championship playoffs reach a crucial stage. Mazembe were handed losses in the matches against AS Maniema Union and CS Don Bosco.

In an official statement, the league disclosed that Malawian player Patrick Mwaungulu was ineligible to play against Maniema. The encounter had ended 1-0 in favor of the Lubumbashi giants, with Mwaungulu scoring the only goal.

“As a result of the above, TP Mazembe will be forfeited for its match on 04/05/2025 against AS Maniema Union. TP Mazembe will also be forfeited for its match against FC Les Aigles du Congo played on 30/04/2025,” reads the official statement published by Linafoot.

The decision significantly impacted the Linafoot standings, as TP Mazembe now drop to fourth place with 25 points after the two forfeits. A top-three finish now looks very unlikely. Maniema and Aigles du Congo leapfrogged Mazembe to occupy second and third place respectively, both with 28 points.

Being left out of continental football qualification now appears to be a real possibility for TP Mazembe. St. Éloi Lupopo currently lead the standings with 30 points.