At just 18 years of age, winger Faveurdi Bongeli has earned a place among the 35 pre-selected players preparing for the African Nations Championship (CHAN) 2024 under the guidance of head coach Otis Ngoma.
The young prospect, already regarded as one of the most exciting talents in Congolese football, is training with the A’ national team ahead of the tournament co-hosted by Kenya, Uganda, and Tanzania.
Bongeli’s rapid rise through the ranks has captured attention across the continent. In less than a year, the former CEFORBEL academy standout has transformed from a local hopeful in the Nsele commune to a vital player at TP Mazembe, one of DR Congo’s footballing giants.
His performances in the domestic league, coupled with appearances in the CAF Champions League and the U20 Africa Cup of Nations, have elevated his status to a national level few could have predicted at the start of the season.
Nicknamed “Zakoko,” Bongeli made an immediate impact during the second phase of the league campaign, earning three consecutive Man of the Match awards.
His dynamic play on the flanks, coupled with his goal-scoring prowess, propelled TP Mazembe forward during a crucial stretch. However, his rise was temporarily halted by a muscle injury that sidelined him for two months — a period that highlighted just how indispensable he had become to the team.
His absence coincided with a visible decline in Mazembe’s attacking rhythm.
His return to action was marked by a standout performance against Daring Club Motema Pembe (DCMP) on 18 June, a match in which he found the back of the net and demonstrated once again why he’s seen as a future star.
Coach Lamine Ndiaye has leaned heavily on Bongeli in recent months, and now Otis Ngoma has offered him a golden opportunity to shine on the continental stage with the national team.
“I was well received by the senior players and the leaders of the squad,” Bongeli shared. “We’re in a good environment here, and I’m learning a lot.”
Far from being content with a spot in the training camp, Bongeli is determined to cement his place in the final squad. “I worked hard at the club, gave my best.
When you do that, the rest follows,” he explained. “My goal is to go further with the national team. I’m here to stay.”
His mentality mirrors his play: sharp, direct, and full of conviction. “There’s competition, yes, but I don’t see it that way,” he added. “I’m focused on giving everything, showing the coach I’m ready.”
Despite his youth, Bongeli understands the weight of wearing the national colours. The pride of donning the blue, yellow, red, and white jersey is not lost on him. “When you wear this jersey, you have to be proud,” he stated firmly. “But pride alone isn’t enough — you have to prove you belong.”
This tournament could serve as a defining chapter in Bongeli’s budding career. His tally of five goals for TP Mazembe this season, combined with his trademark speed, clever footwork, and ability to stretch defences from the wing, provides a potent mix that could prove invaluable for Ngoma’s side.
While his inclusion in the CHAN training camp may have come as a surprise to some — including himself — Bongeli is ready to seize the moment.
As the Leopards prepare to challenge for honours in East Africa, all eyes will be on the teenager from Masina who dares to dream big — and dares to deliver.
