Afimico Pululu has confirmed his international allegiance to the Democratic Republic of Congo, turning down overtures from Angola and expressing deep pride at joining the Leopards’ national team for the first time.
The 26-year-old striker, who was born in Luanda, Angola, but holds dual nationality, has been named in Sébastien Desabre’s 26-man squad for the upcoming international friendlies against Mali and Madagascar, scheduled for 5 and 8 June respectively.
These fixtures serve as preparation for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, set to take place from 21 December 2025 to 18 January 2026.
Pululu, currently enjoying a prolific season with Polish champions Jagiellonia Białystok, has never previously featured at senior international level.
However, his recent form—tallying 21 goals and 4 assists in 51 appearances across all competitions—has made a compelling case for his inclusion.
He also finished as the top scorer in this season’s UEFA Europa Conference League, netting eight times before his team’s elimination in the quarterfinal stage.
Despite recent interest from the Angolan national team, Pululu made it clear that his heart lies with Congo. Speaking to Leopardsfoot, a media outlet close to the national setup, the forward shared a heartfelt message with fans and underlined his emotional connection to the DRC.
“Mwana Mboka is very happy to join the Leopards’ lair. I am truly proud and honored. It’s a feeling I cannot describe,” he said, referring to himself using the Lingala term meaning ‘child of the country’.
“Just imagining myself wearing this jersey fills me with joy. I am thankful to the Congolese people for their love and support. As we say, never betray the Congo. +243, Toza ensemble [we are together].”
Pululu’s choice is not merely symbolic. With his club career reaching new heights and his reputation as a clinical finisher continuing to grow, he could become a key asset for Desabre as the Leopards look to qualify for their first World Cup since 1974 and make a strong showing at the next AFCON.
The decision also highlights the increasing competition among African national teams to secure the allegiance of players with dual nationality.
In Pululu’s case, the DRC emerged victorious, not only gaining a forward in top form but also one who has publicly committed himself to the national cause with unwavering loyalty.
Pululu began his professional journey in Switzerland, rising through the youth ranks at FC Basel before making senior appearances for the club.
He later had spells with Neuchâtel Xamax and Germany’s Greuther Fürth before moving to Poland. His current club, Jagiellonia, recently secured the Ekstraklasa title, with Pululu playing a central role in their championship campaign.
Now, as he prepares to wear the blue, red, and yellow of the DRC for the first time, Pululu will be hoping to carry his club momentum into the international arena.
With friendlies on the horizon and competitive fixtures looming, all eyes will be on the dynamic forward to see if he can replicate his domestic form on the continental stage.
His selection marks not only a personal milestone but also a strategic boost for the Leopards as they refine their squad ahead of a critical period in African football.
