Congo head coach Valdo officially unveiled his squad on Wednesday in Brazzaville ahead of the upcoming qualifiers for the 2021 Africa Cup of Nations. The Red Devils are preparing for two important fixtures, first against Senegal and then Guinea-Bissau, as they aim to make a strong start in their qualification campaign.
The squad announcement features a mix of experienced players and returning faces, along with a few notable absences. Goalkeeper Christopher Mafoumbi is back in the fold, providing additional security between the posts. Striker Silvère Ganvoula also returns to strengthen the attacking options after time away from the national setup. Their comebacks are expected to add both depth and experience to the team.
On the other hand, Valdo has opted not to include Merveil Ndockyt and Mavis Tchibota in this selection. Their absence has raised some eyebrows, as both players have been regular contributors in the past. The coach appears to have made strategic choices as he reshapes the squad for these crucial encounters.
One constant remains Thievy Bifouma, who once again headlines the squad. The dynamic forward continues to be Congo’s main attacking threat and will carry much of the team’s offensive responsibility. His pace, creativity, and experience at international level make him a key figure as the Red Devils look to challenge tough opponents.
Congo’s schedule will not be easy. They travel to Thiès to face Senegal on November 13, a demanding away fixture against one of Africa’s strongest sides. They will then return home to host Guinea-Bissau on November 17, where securing points will be essential to maintain their qualification hopes.
Valdo’s full squad for the two matches is as follows:
Goalkeepers:
Christoffer Mafoumbi (Blackpool/England D3), Pavhel Ndzila (Étoile du Congo), Giscard Mavoungou (AS Cheminots)
Defenders:
Béranger Itoua (Sohar FC/Oman D1), Fernand Mayembo (Le Havre/France D2), Elie Ikouma (CARA), Ravy Tsouka (Västerås/Sweden D2), Dorvel Dibekou (Étoile du Congo), Carof Bakoua (AS Otohô), Bissiki Magnokele (AS Otohô), Hugo Konongo (Sepsi Sfântu Gheorghe/Romania D1)
Midfielders:
Durel Avounou (SM Caen/France D2), Gaiüs Makouta (Braga/Portugal D2), Amour Loussoukou (Stade Tunisien/Tunisia D1), Yhoan Andzouana (KSV Roeselare/Belgium D2), Harvy Osseté (Diables Noirs)
Forwards:
Junior Makiesse (US Tataouine/Tunisia D1), Silvère Ganvoula (Bochum/Germany D2), Prince Ibara (Beerschot/Belgium D2), Thievy Bifouma (Yeni Malatyaspor/Turkey D1), Juvhel Tsoumou (FCS/Romania D1), Yann Mokombo (Étoile du Congo)
With this group, Valdo will hope to combine discipline, experience, and attacking efficiency to compete strongly in the opening matches of the qualifiers.
