Congo will receive a much-needed boost ahead of their crucial AFCON 2025 qualifier against South Africa, with Fred Dembi and Bryan Passi returning to the squad. The Red Devils, who suffered a heavy 5-0 defeat in the first leg, will look to redeem themselves on home soil in Brazzaville on Tuesday.
The Congolese Football Federation confirmed the reinforcements, announcing that Bryan Passi, who missed the Johannesburg fixture due to suspension, has rejoined the squad.
The defender, a key figure in Congo’s defense, was unavailable for the opening leg but will be available for the return match as he has now served his one-match ban.
Midfielder Fred Dembi, who plays for Red Star in France, also returns to the fold after being sidelined with an injury.
His absence was felt in the first leg, but the midfielder has now recovered and is ready to strengthen Congo’s midfield as they prepare for a must-win encounter.
Congo, currently third in Group K, have their backs against the wall after the heavy defeat in Johannesburg.
The return of two experienced players will be seen as a vital lifeline for coach Isaac Ngata and his squad as they aim to revive their qualification hopes.
Dembi and Passi bring not only experience but also leadership to a team in desperate need of a confidence boost.
Coach Isaac Ngata is fully aware of the challenges ahead but remains optimistic about Congo’s chances in the return leg.
The team will need to significantly improve their performance from the first encounter if they are to have any chance of securing points at home.
With Dembi and Passi back in the lineup, Ngata hopes to address the defensive frailties that were exposed in the first leg and add more solidity in midfield.
The return leg on Tuesday, October 15, marks a pivotal moment in Congo’s AFCON qualification campaign.
A victory is essential if the Red Devils are to stay in contention for a spot in the tournament, set to be held in Morocco in 2025.
Congo’s supporters will be hoping for a complete turnaround in Brazzaville, as the team looks to put the humiliation of the 5-0 loss behind them and focus on a much stronger showing against a South African side full of confidence.
The Red Devils will need to rely on every ounce of their resilience and determination to overturn the previous result, and the return of their two key players could make all the difference in what promises to be a challenging yet decisive match.
