Tension between some DR Congo Leopards players and their clubs

The players’ delayed return, due to celebrations following the DRC’s qualification for the 2026 World Cup, is causing irritation among the clubs.

Having qualified against Jamaica on 31 March, the Democratic Republic of Congo wants to celebrate its return to the World Cup with great fanfare 52 years on. A grand celebration is planned in Kinshasa on Sunday 5 April at the Stade des Martyrs. However, these events are depriving the clubs of their players for their league matches. Some of them have spoken out.

In France, Lille and Le Havre have expressed their dissatisfaction regarding their respective players, Chancel Mbemba and Lionel Mpasi. In Spain, the absence of Charles Pickel has caused a stir. His club, RCD Espanyol, has even threatened to sanction the player upon his return.