Guy Bukasa: The mastermind behind Saint Éloi Lupopo’s resurgence
Since his appointment on 17 August 2025, Guy Bukasa has transformed FC Saint Éloi Lupopo into one of the most exciting and disciplined sides in Congolese football.
In just a few months, the 41-year-old coach has guided the Lubumbashi club to historic heights, including their first-ever qualification for the CAF Champions League group stage and an unbeaten start to the domestic campaign.
Lupopo’s journey in the Champions League has been nothing short of remarkable.
Under Bukasa’s guidance, the Railwaymen began by eliminating Sudanese giants Al Merrikh in the preliminary round before pulling off one of the tournament’s biggest upsets.
Facing Orlando Pirates — one of South Africa’s top sides — Lupopo delivered a stunning 3-0 victory in the first leg at the Kibassa Maliba Stadium in Lubumbashi.
The return leg in Johannesburg was a tense affair.
Despite losing 3-0 in regulation time, Bukasa’s men held their nerve in a dramatic penalty shootout, eventually triumphing 5-4 to secure their historic spot in the group stage — a first in the club’s long history.
Domestically, the story has been equally impressive.
In the opening rounds of the Congolese championship, Lupopo claimed two consecutive victories — a narrow 1-0 win over CS Manika on 30 October and a statement 2-1 triumph against TP Mazembe on 2 November.
These results have reinforced the sense that Bukasa’s methods are producing both consistency and belief.
Across six official matches in all competitions, the Congolese tactician has recorded four wins and two draws, with his team scoring seven goals and conceding just four.
The statistics tell a story of balance and control, hallmarks of Bukasa’s approach to the game.
Known for his calm authority and emphasis on structure, Bukasa has introduced a style rooted in discipline, patience, and collective intelligence.
“We must play with personality and discipline, without fearing the opponent. Every match is an opportunity to show our progress,” he explained — a philosophy that now defines Lupopo’s resurgence.
His ability to blend tactical precision with emotional balance has turned the team into a well-oiled unit capable of standing up to the continent’s elite.
Beyond the results, Bukasa’s leadership has restored a sense of pride and ambition to a club long searching for direction.
With continental football now beckoning and early domestic momentum on their side, FC Saint Éloi Lupopo looks set to continue its renaissance — with Guy Bukasa firmly at the heart of its revival.
