DR Congo coach Otis Ngoma has voiced frustration over his team’s lack of proper preparation ahead of their decisive African Nations Championship (CHAN) Group A fixture against Morocco, warning that his players are struggling physically despite their strong performances so far.
Speaking to the press on the eve of Sunday’s clash at Nyayo Stadium in Nairobi, Ngoma was blunt about the toll that inadequate preparations have taken on his squad. “Our players have physical problems simply because they did not benefit from a normal preparation,” he said.
“Even when we win matches, we suffer to keep them fit and treat them. We have worked miracles to keep them going. You want us to be champions, then help us prepare well too.”
Ngoma, who has overseen the Leopards A’ campaign, described a team battling through cramps, fatigue and repeated injuries. “These boys are suffering,” he insisted. “After training sessions, they are left with cramps everywhere. It is really troubling.”
A decisive clash against Morocco
Despite the physical strain on his side, Ngoma and his players must now focus on their most crucial game of the group stage. Both DR Congo and Morocco enter the final round of Group A with six points, making Sunday’s meeting a direct battle for a place in the quarter-finals.
The stakes are especially high for the Leopards. With both teams level on points and goal difference (four scored, four conceded each), Morocco hold a narrow advantage by virtue of having scored five goals in the competition compared to DR Congo’s four. A draw would therefore be enough for the Atlas Lions to progress, while DR Congo need nothing less than victory.
Adding to the Congolese challenge, they will be without left-back Papy Kokeleya, suspended after accumulating yellow cards. His absence forces Ngoma into a reshuffle at the back at a time when defensive solidity is paramount.
Trust in youth
To fill the gap, Ngoma is turning to 21-year-old Jacques Kapanga Mwimba, who broke through last season with AC Rangers. Though inexperienced at this level, Kapanga is regarded as a tough and committed defender, capable of competing with Morocco’s seasoned forwards.
Ngoma expressed confidence in his young player, stressing both his potential and his readiness to step up. “He had an excellent season and was praised by many.
People have been guiding him like fathers, like teachers. His moment has arrived,” said the Congolese coach, highlighting the defender’s combative nature and resilience.
Experience versus ambition
For Ngoma, however, the challenge is not just tactical but also one of experience. He acknowledged that Morocco, two-time CHAN champions, have a squad filled with players accustomed to international competition, while many of DR Congo’s squad are only just beginning their journey at this level.
“Morocco have players who have featured in all categories of their national teams,” he observed. “Our boys are only discovering this stage. But they are representing DR Congo in the best way possible.”
Despite the odds, Ngoma remains optimistic. He sees his youthful squad as fighters who, even with limited preparation and experience, can rise to the occasion. For him, Sunday’s match is not only about qualification but also about proving the potential of Congolese footballers nurtured at home.
Win or bust
As the Leopards prepare to face Morocco, the equation is simple: only victory will do. Anything less will end their campaign, leaving Morocco to advance at their expense.
With preparation concerns, injury worries, and the absence of a key defender, DR Congo face considerable obstacles. Yet under Ngoma’s leadership, they will take to the pitch determined to defy the odds, relying on youthful energy and resilience in their bid to reach the quarter-finals.
