After over a decade away from Africa’s biggest women’s football stage, the Democratic Republic of Congo returns to the Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (WAFCON) 2024 with something to prove. The Leopards may not arrive as favorites, but their hunger, energy, and raw talent make them a team no one should overlook in Morocco.
🔙 Back on the Big Stage
DR Congo’s last WAFCON appearance was in 2006, where they finished in the group stage. After years of inconsistent participation and limited support, 2024 marks a new chapter. With renewed investment, a national women’s league growing in competitiveness, and a surge in youth participation, the Leopards are back and looking to roar.
🚧 Road to Qualification
DRC surprised many during the qualifiers, knocking out experienced opposition with a combination of defensive resilience and clinical finishing. Their path back to WAFCON has built belief across the nation — this return isn’t just symbolic, it’s strategic.
👥 Key Players to Watch
⚡ Naomie Kabakaba (Forward)
A pacey attacker who plays her club football in Europe, Kabakaba is the primary goal threat. Her directness and eye for space will be vital to DRC’s counter-attacking style.
🧠 Lyness Massamba (Midfielder)
Massamba is the team’s midfield engine. Composed under pressure, she dictates tempo and can launch attacks with accurate long-range passing.
🛡️ Merveille Kanjinga (Defender)
Strong in the air and tough in the tackle, Kanjinga will anchor the backline. She’s known for her commitment and leadership on the pitch.
🧤 Sandra Mapendo (Goalkeeper)
Agile and brave, Mapendo has made crucial saves in high-pressure qualifiers and will be key to keeping DRC competitive in tight games.
🧠 The Coach: Hervé Happy
Hervé Happy took over as head coach of the Democratic Republic of Congo women’s national team in June 2025, just ahead of WAFCON 2025. A Cameroonian-born tactician with extensive experience across Africa and Europe, Happy is known for blending authority with a paternal, attentive approach to leadership. His focus is on building a balanced and cohesive squad capable of improving on the DRC’s best finish in the tournament. This WAFCON will be a crucial test of his strategic vision and ability to unify the Léopards Dames.
🗓️ Group A Fixtures
🇲🇦 Morocco vs DR Congo 🇨🇩
📅 Saturday, 5 July 2025
📍 Stade Moulay Abdellah, Rabat
🕕 18:00 (GMT+1)
🇨🇩 DR Congo vs Senegal 🇸🇳
📅 Wednesday, 9 July 2025
📍 Stade Moulay Abdellah, Rabat
🕗 20:00 (GMT+1)
🇿🇲 Zambia vs DR Congo 🇨🇩
📅 Sunday, 13 July 2025
📍 Stade Moulay Hassan, Rabat
🕗 20:00 (GMT+1)
🎯 Expectations
With modest expectations and little pressure, DR Congo has the freedom to play without fear. Advancing to the knockout stage would be a massive success and a stepping stone toward becoming a consistent WAFCON competitor again.
🔮 Final Word
The Leopards may be returning from the shadows, but they arrive with bite. DR Congo’s journey to WAFCON 2024 is one of determination, resilience, and hope. Don’t be surprised if they rattle a few giants along the way.
