Tonight, Algeria’s Greens face their most formidable test of AFCON 2025: the resurgent Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo. This is not just another group stage match; it’s a clash against a continental giant rediscovering its roar. Here is a comprehensive analysis of the team standing in Algeria’s path.
The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) is a footballing paradox. It is a nation of immense talent—a vast reservoir of players with the physicality, skill, and flair emblematic of African football’s potential. Yet, for years, its national team has mirrored the country’s own complex challenges: a story of unfulfilled promise and monumental waste. With a capital in Kinshasa (distinct from the Republic of Congo’s Brazzaville across the Congo River), the DRC’s footballing journey has been one of intermittent brilliance overshadowed by organizational chaos.
However, to define them by their underachievement is to make a grave tactical error. In the crucible of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), the Leopards are perennial dark horses. As two-time champions (1968, 1974) and four-time semi-finalists—including a run to the final four in the last edition—their tournament pedigree is undeniable. They possess a deep-seated cultural affinity for the competition, often elevating their game when the continental spotlight shines brightest. Underestimating them has been the downfall of many favored sides.
A clear return to form
The current renaissance is orchestrated by the shrewd French tactician Sébastien Desabre. Appointed in August 2022, Desabre is no stranger to African football, with a lengthy CV that includes clubs like JS Saoura in Algeria. His impact has been transformative. He has instilled a resilient, organized structure that has eradicated the heavy defeats of the past. The DRC under Desabre is notoriously difficult to break down. Their narrow 1-0 semi-final loss to eventual champions Ivory Coast in the 2023 AFCON is a testament to this new-found steel; they were minutes away from a historic final.
This tactical solidity is yielding tangible results beyond AFCON. In a staggering display of their potential, the Leopards recently navigated a World Cup qualifying group containing both Cameroon and Nigeria, eliminating both African powerhouses. They now stand on the brink of a first World Cup appearance since 1974 (as Zaire). This is not a team in transition; it is a team arriving at its peak.
Ranked 56th by FIFA (and climbing), their strength is crystallized in a formidable squad blend of experience and elite European pedigree. This is not merely a collection of “good players,” but a core of established performers:
- Chancel Mbemba (Marseille): The defensive rock and captain, whose leadership and experience are invaluable.
- Aaron Wan-Bissaka (Manchester United): A world-class one-on-one defender whose inclusion has significantly bolstered the backline.
- Cédric Bakambu (Galatasaray): The veteran goal-poacher, a constant menace with his intelligent movement.
- Simon Banza (Braga): The in-form striker, offering a powerful, direct goal threat.
- Grady Diangana (West Bromwich Albion) & Yoane Wissa (Brentford): Wingers capable of moments of individual magic to unlock defenses.
The warning for Algeria is clear and urgent. The Greens cannot afford to view this as a straightforward fixture. They must contend with a physically imposing, tactically disciplined, and psychologically confident opponent whose recent scalps prove they fear no one. Algeria’s strategy must account for the Leopards’ defensive compactness, their threat from set-pieces, and the explosive counter-attacks led by their array of attacking talent. Tonight’s match is a litmus test for both sides’ championship aspirations.
DZfoot | Analysis Enhanced by Editorial Insight