CAF approves 18,000 fans for DR Congo’s AFCON 2027 qualifier against Sierra Leone

DR Congo have received a significant boost ahead of their 2027 Africa Cup of Nations qualifying campaign after the Confederation of African Football (CAF) approved the presence of 18,000 supporters for their upcoming home encounter against Sierra Leone.

The Leopards were initially expected to host the Leone Stars behind closed doors following an earlier restriction imposed on the fixture. However, the latest decision by CAF means the Congolese national team will now have the backing of a section of their supporters when both sides meet in the third round of the qualifiers.

The development was announced by the DR Congo Ministry of Sport, which confirmed that 18,000 fans would be permitted into the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa for the encounter scheduled for Thursday, November 12, 2026.

Although the approval does not allow the stadium to operate at its full capacity, it represents a welcome development for the Congolese side, who had faced the prospect of playing one of their important home fixtures without the support of their fans.

The Stade des Martyrs is one of the most recognisable football venues in the country and traditionally provides an intimidating atmosphere for visiting teams. The opportunity to welcome supporters back into the stadium is therefore expected to provide additional motivation for the Leopards as they seek a positive result against Sierra Leone

The presence of 18,000 spectators could also play an important role in lifting the team’s confidence, particularly as the players look to take advantage of home conditions and strengthen their position in the qualifying campaign.

For the Congolese supporters, the decision offers an opportunity to rally behind their national team in a fixture that carries considerable importance in their pursuit of a place at the 2027 Africa Cup of Nations.

DR Congo will be determined to make the most of the home advantage and deliver a strong performance against the Leone Stars, with the backing of their supporters potentially providing an added incentive.

While the stadium will not be filled to capacity, CAF’s authorisation has ensured that the Leopards will not have to face the challenge of playing the crucial qualifying encounter in an empty stadium.