DR Congo Reveal 23-Man Squad for 2015 Africa Cup of Nations
Following their warm-up friendly against Cameroon in Yaoundé, DR Congo has announced its final 23-man squad for the 2015 Africa Cup of Nations. Coach Florent Ibenge trimmed the roster from an initial 29 players, dropping six local talents to finalize the team.
The squad includes veteran goalkeeper Robert Kidiaba, who will be participating in what is expected to be his final major tournament. Despite a lengthy injury layoff this season, striker Dieumerci Mbokani has also been named, providing valuable experience upfront. The Leopards will also rely heavily on in-form players like Yannick Bolasie of Crystal Palace and midfielder Neeskens Kebano.
DR Congo is drawn in Group B, facing Tunisia, Cape Verde, and Zambia in the tournament.
DR Congo 2015 CAN Squad:
Goalkeepers:
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Robert Kidiaba (TP Mazembe)
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Nicaise Kudimbana (Anderlecht, Belgium)
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Parfait Mandanda (SC Charleroi, Belgium)
Defenders:
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Issampa Mpeko (Kabuscorp, Angola)
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Jean Kasusula (TP Mazembe)
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Mabele Bawaka (AS V Club)
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Joêl Kimwaki (TP Mazembe)
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Chancel Mbemba (Anderlecht, Belgium)
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Christopher Oualembo (Academica Coimbra)
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Cédric Mongongu (Evian TG, France)
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Gabriel Zakuani (Peterborough, England)
Midfielders:
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Hérvé Kage (Genk, Belgium)
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Neeskens Kebano (Charleroi, Belgium)
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Lema Mabidi (AS V Club)
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Cédric Makiadi (Werder Bremen, Germany)
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Jean Munganga (AS V Club)
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Youssouf Mulumbu (West Bromwich Albion, England)
Forwards:
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Jérémy Bokila (Terek Grozny, Russia)
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Junior Kabananga (Cercle Bruges, Belgium)
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Yannick Bolasie (Crystal Palace, England)
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Firmin Mubele (AS V Club)
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Cédric Mabwati (Osasuna, Spain)
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Dieumerci Mbokani (Dynamo Kiev, Ukraine)
As DR Congo prepares for the competition, much will be expected from the blend of seasoned veterans and dynamic young talent in their bid to make an impact in Equatorial Guinea.
