Habib Habibou Returns to Belgium, Sets Sights on Historic AFCON Qualification
Habib Habibou is back in Belgium, signing with Lokeren after a season in Israel with Maccabi Petah Tikva. The striker, who previously played for Charleroi, Zulte Waregem, and Gent, spoke to Walfoot about his return, Lokeren’s challenging start to the season, and his ambitions with the Central African Republic national team.
“I didn’t join my national team during this international break because there’s no break in the Belgian First Division B, so I stayed in Belgium. It was a difficult decision. On top of that, I just came back from an injury, so I didn’t want to take any risks,” Habibou explained.
Looking ahead, the forward is determined to help the Central African Republic qualify for its first-ever Africa Cup of Nations. “We must win our first match against Burundi (2-0) in the group stage. The second match will be against Mauritania, then Morocco, and I’ll be there. We want to achieve qualification like Madagascar and Gambia did before us. With my teammates and my cousin Geoffrey Kondogbia, we want to make history—for the nation and the Central African people. It’s a dream I hope to fulfill before the end of my career,” he added.
Habibou’s return to Belgium not only strengthens Lokeren’s squad but also gives him the platform to regain full fitness and form ahead of a crucial international campaign for his country.
