Neeskens Kebano Cleared to Represent DR Congo
Good news has finally arrived for Neeskens Kebano. The young striker, formerly of Paris Saint-Germain and a French youth international, has officially received FIFA clearance to switch allegiance and represent the Democratic Republic of Congo at senior level.
The announcement came directly from Kebano himself via Twitter, where he expressed relief and excitement:
“Still this administrative problem that won’t allow me to play the next matches with the DRC… It’s been a bit long… But I hope to qualify as soon as possible. Thank you for your messages of encouragement! #Team243,” he tweeted earlier in the week.
That issue has now been resolved, allowing Kebano to join the Leopards squad selected by coach Florent Ibengue. While he was initially set to miss the critical first leg against Côte d’Ivoire in Lubumbashi due to the delay, he is expected to be available for the return leg in Abidjan.
Kebano’s inclusion comes as a boost to DR Congo’s attacking options as they continue their campaign in the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers. The 22-year-old brings flair and technical ability, and he’ll be eager to make his mark now that he’s eligible to represent his ancestral nation.
Having navigated the complex nationality switch process, Kebano’s focus now turns to the pitch — and helping DR Congo reach the finals in Morocco.
