The Leopards of the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) secured their spot in the 2025 African Nations Championship (CHAN) after defeating Chad 3-1 in the return leg of their qualifier on December 28.
The triumph at home followed a 1-1 draw in the first leg held in Ivory Coast, ensuring their place in the seventh edition of the CHAN, set to be hosted across Tanzania, Kenya, and Uganda.
The victory was a significant achievement for Congolese football, marking the Leopards’ return to the tournament after missing the previous edition.
Head coach Otis Ngoma, speaking in the post-match press conference, reflected on the challenges faced during the qualifiers and the mental resilience needed to overcome them.
It was a long-term battle. Mentally, we are a little weak, which is why at half-time, we had to make our players aware again that we were stronger than our opponent and that we had to give a little more, be determined, especially play with conviction that we were going to score.
And we did it,” Ngoma said. He also downplayed the significance of the goal conceded, describing it as “a Christmas present” and expressing confidence in his goalkeeper’s abilities, citing strong performances in the African Champions League.
Ngoma emphasized the importance of adequate preparation for the tournament’s final phase.
We were the only nation that did not hold a gathering or training camp.
In November, this favor was granted to us this time by the President of the Republic, Fecofa, and the Ministry of Sports.
To be ready for the first match, it is necessary to prepare 15 days or 3 weeks in advance because we are qualified for the final phase,” he explained.
It is played over a month, so everything must be prepared in advance, resume physical preparation even though the players do it in clubs.
We will be recreating a club in the national team.
The Leopards’ qualification represents a significant milestone, not just for the team but for Congolese football as a whole.
With the opportunity to compete on the continental stage, the DRC will aim to make a strong impression and reclaim their status among Africa’s footballing elite.
The upcoming CHAN will provide a platform for the Leopards to showcase their talent and resilience as they take on the continent’s best.
