The Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) coach, Florent Ibenge, has announced his final 23-man squad for the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt. The list was confirmed on Tuesday, June 11, following the reduction of his extended roster by six players. Notably, midfielder Giannelli Imbula and Aaron Tshibola did not make the final cut. Defender Padou Bompunga, midfielder Nelson Munganga, Raja Casablanca’s Fabrice Ngoma, and Sanga Balende goalkeeper Auguy Kalambay were also omitted. Key players such as Yannick Bolasie, Cédric Bakambu, and Marcel Tisserand will be part of the Leopards’ campaign.
The squad features a mix of domestic and international talent, combining experience and versatility across all positions. In goal, Ley Matampi (Al Ansar), Parfait Mandanda (Dinamo Bucharest), and Anthony Mossi (Chiasso FC) provide solid options between the posts. The defensive unit includes Issama Mpeko (TP Mazembe), Christian Luyindama (Galatasaray), Marcel Tisserand (Wolfsburg), Merveille Bokadi (Standard de Liège), Arthur Masuaku (West Ham), Wilfried Moke (Ankaragucu), Bobo Ungenda (Agosto), Ngonda Muzinga (Vita Club), and Shabani Djuma (Vita Club), ensuring a blend of pace, strength, and tactical awareness.
In midfield, the Leopards will rely on Chadrac Akolo (Stuttgart), Chancel Mbemba (Porto), Paul-José Mpoku (Standard de Liège), Youssouf Mulumbu (Kilmarnock), Jacques Maghoma (Birmingham), and Trésor Mputu (TP Mazembe) to control play, distribute effectively, and support both attack and defense. The forward line features goal-scoring threats in Yannick Bolasie (Anderlecht), Britt Assombalonga (Middlesbrough), Cédric Bakambu (Beijing Goan), Meshack Elia (TP Mazembe), and Jonathan Bolingi (Antwerp), providing pace, power, and finishing ability.
The Leopards are drawn into a competitive group for AFCON 2019, and Ibenge’s squad reflects a careful balance between experienced internationals and dynamic domestic players. With stars like Bolasie and Bakambu leading the attack, Tisserand and Mbemba anchoring the defense, and a midfield capable of linking both ends of the pitch, the DRC will aim to make a strong impression in Egypt. This squad represents the nation’s hopes of progressing deep into the tournament while showcasing the talent that has made the Leopards a respected force in African football.
