The Democratic Republic of Congo's U20 national team, also known as the Léopards, received a motivational visit from Amadou Diaby, the second vice-president of the Congolese Football Federation (Fecofa), on October 6, 2026, in Dakar. Diaby encouraged the team ahead of their participation in the Union of Central African Football Federations (Uniffac) tournament in Yaoundé, Cameroon. The tournament serves as a qualifier for the 2027 Ghana U20 Africa Cup of Nations.
During the visit to the Onomo Hotel in Dakar, where the Congolese team is preparing for the competition, Diaby emphasized the importance of the tournament and urged the young players to represent their country with pride. He assured the team of the support of the Fecofa executive committee and encouraged them to defend their title as champions of the Uniffac zone. The Léopards will compete against Gabon and Congo-Brazzaville in Group B of the tournament.
The draw for the tournament was conducted on October 5, 2026, and placed the RDC in Group B alongside Gabon and Congo-Brazzaville. Group A consists of host nation Cameroon, Chad, and the Central African Republic. The Léopards will begin their campaign on October 12, 2026, at 4:00 PM local time against Gabon, following the opening match between Cameroon and Chad at 1:00 PM.
Amadou Diaby stressed the significance of discipline, cohesion, and commitment during the competition, emphasizing that these qualities will be crucial to the team's success. He also assured the delegation that the Fecofa will provide its full support throughout the tournament. The team's coach, Guy Bukasa, was present during the visit, along with the players and technical staff.
The Uniffac U20 tournament will feature six teams competing for two qualifying spots for the 2027 Ghana U20 Africa Cup of Nations. The finalists of the tournament will represent the Uniffac zone at the continental competition. The Léopards are aiming to defend their title and secure one of the two available spots.
The tournament will take place at the Ahmadou-Ahidjo Stadium in Yaoundé, Cameroon. The competition is expected to be fiercely contested, with teams vying for a spot at the 2027 U20 Africa Cup of Nations. The Léopards will face stiff competition from their Group B opponents, Gabon and Congo-Brazzaville.
The Congolese team's preparation in Dakar is part of their strategy to fine-tune their skills ahead of the tournament. With Diaby's motivational visit, the team is expected to be boosted ahead of their campaign. The Léopards will look to make a strong impression and bring back the qualification for the Can U20 with honor.
Key points
- DR Congo's U20 team to face Gabon and Congo-Brazzaville in Group B of the Uniffac tournament.
