DRC U23 football team ready for second Maurice Revello Tournament appearance

The Democratic Republic of Congo's U23 national football team, known as the Leopards Espoirs, is set to participate in the prestigious Maurice Revello Tournament in France. This marks their second appearance in the international competition, formerly called the "Tournoi de Toulon," and is a significant step in their preparation for the upcoming U23 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers.

The team will travel to France for the tournament, which runs from May 31 to June 13, 2026. Coach Guy Bukasa has assembled a squad primarily composed of players who play outside the African continent. This selection strategy was influenced by health restrictions related to Ebola and a desire to avoid disrupting local clubs during the decisive phase of the national championship.

Two players, Oscar Kabwit and David Fürst, will join the squad later as their clubs will only release them from June 1.

The Leopards Espoirs will compete in a challenging group, with their schedule including matches against Tunisia, China, Colombia, and Saudi Arabia. The tournament is considered a vital platform for showcasing young talent and assessing the team's level against strong international opponents.

The full squad includes goalkeepers Tutu Ryan (SM Caen, France), Roland Leny (Royal Antwerp, Belgium), and Steve Bertin Tchokokam (FCO Obermais, Italy). Defenders are Daniel Tshilanda (Sport Hasselt, Belgium), Ethan Kena Kabeya (FC Villefranche, France), David Fürst (1FC Köln, Germany), Kyllian Kolela (SC Braga, Portugal), Filozofe Mabeti (Swindon Town, England), Ludovick Wola (RSC Anderlecht, Belgium), Prince Mbatsi (Olympique Lyonnais, France), and Manoël Verhaeghe (RWDM Brussels, Belgium). Midfielders are Josué Kimboma (SM Caen, France), Messy Manitu (Amiens SC, France), Noah Makanzu (Helmond Sport, Netherlands), Jules Ahoka (Royal Antwerp, Belgium), Honoré Bayangnisha (FC Sochaux, France), and Joel Kana Katoto (RSC Anderlecht, Belgium). Strikers include Oscar Kabwit (FC Lucerne, Switzerland), Samuel Ntanda (RSC Anderlecht, Belgium), Jordy Kwange (FC Nantes, France), Kiton Ekoli (SC Braga, Portugal), Nehemie Lurika (Olympique Lyonnais, France), Arthur Spadoni (US Avellino, Italy), and Joe Balumene (Glacis United, Gibraltar).