Brice Samba Junior Commits to Congo National Team Amid CAN Qualifier Momentum
By BBC News Staff
Brice Samba Junior, the 20-year-old goalkeeper with dual eligibility, has reportedly pledged his international future to Congo, following regular call-ups and growing interest from the Congolese football federation. The decision, which emerged from a high-level meeting involving Sports Minister Léon Alfred Opimbat and members of the Samba family, is seen as a significant boost for the national team.
Samba, currently playing his club football in France, had been approached multiple times by Congo head coach Claude Leroy. While previously undecided, it now appears the young shot-stopper is ready to follow in his father’s footsteps — a legendary figure in Congolese goalkeeping — and don the Red Devils’ shirt.
The move is seen as mutually beneficial. With fierce competition for places in France’s national setup, aligning with Congo could offer Samba immediate playing time and a key role in a team on the rise. Currently boasting a perfect record of six points from six in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) qualifiers, Congo are in strong contention for a spot in the final tournament.
Samba’s arrival could further solidify a squad already brimming with confidence. Though young, his technical abilities and calm presence between the posts have drawn praise, and many believe he has the potential to become Congo’s first-choice goalkeeper in the near future.
With qualification now within reach and a promising new goalkeeper possibly stepping in, the Congolese national team finds itself riding a wave of optimism — bolstered by the legacy of the Samba name and the ambition of a new generation.
