Nicaise Kudimbana Joins Antwerp After Unused Spell at Anderlecht
By BBC Sport Africa
Congolese international goalkeeper Nicaise Kudimbana has signed with Belgian second division side Royal Antwerp FC following a frustrating, inactive season with RSC Anderlecht.
The 28-year-old shot-stopper has agreed to a two-year deal with Antwerp, with an option for a third season, according to reports from La Dernière Heure. The move comes after his contract with Anderlecht expired in June 2015 and was not renewed by the club.
Kudimbana joined Anderlecht from KV Oostende last summer but failed to make a single first-team appearance during the 2014–2015 season. He found himself firmly behind established number one Silvio Proto and young prospect Davy Roef in the pecking order, leaving him sidelined throughout the campaign.
With no playing time and little chance of breaking into the first team, the decision not to extend his contract came as little surprise. As a free agent, Kudimbana was free to choose his next destination—and opted for Antwerp in hopes of reviving his career.
The move offers a vital opportunity for the Kinshasa-born goalkeeper to regain momentum and showcase his talent in competitive matches. Antwerp, one of Belgium’s most historic clubs, currently competes in the second tier but is aiming to return to the top flight.
For Kudimbana, consistent game time could also reignite his international career. The DR Congo national team—known as the Leopards—has struggled to find a dependable successor to veteran Robert Kidiaba. Kudimbana, who has been capped by his country, could become a serious contender for the No.1 spot if he performs well at club level.
With the new season approaching, Kudimbana will be hoping that regular minutes at Antwerp will allow him to re-establish himself both domestically and internationally.
