DR Congo may face Equatorial Guinea behind closed Doors
By Agency
KINSHASHA – DR Congo could face a frustrating return to home soil. With the Leopards set to play in Kinshasa in just a few days as they begin their 2027 AFCON qualifying campaign, their clash against Equatorial Guinea could take place without supporters due to the current status of the Stade des Martyrs.
DR Congo’s next international camp will begin on Monday, with several fixtures on the schedule.
The Leopards will first host Equatorial Guinea in Kinshasa on September 24 before travelling to Harare to face Zimbabwe on September 29 in the 2027 AFCON qualifiers.
They will then continue the international window with two friendly matches against Uganda, scheduled for October 2 and 5, with the venues yet to be confirmed.
However, their first match back in Kinshasa could take place in a very different atmosphere from what players and supporters had hoped for.
DR Congo vs Equatorial Guinea behind closed doors?
According to journalist Djastro Mubemba, the match against Nzalang Nacional is expected to be played behind closed doors.
The issue is reportedly linked to the current certification status of the Stade des Martyrs, which has only received partial approval while renovation work continues.
The Congolese Football Federation has not yet officially confirmed the information.
If confirmed, it would be a major disappointment for both the players and the supporters. The Leopards had been hoping to reunite with their fans in Kinshasa only a few weeks after their World Cup campaign.
Stade des Martyrs still undergoing major renovations
Renovation work at the stadium began in February with one main objective: bringing the venue fully into line with the international standards required by the Confederation of African Football.
Several major upgrades have been planned.
These include replacing the playing surface with a newly certified pitch, modernising the dressing rooms and media areas, improving sanitation and security facilities, and installing a second giant screen.
The long-term aim is for the Stade des Martyrs to regain full approval to host major international fixtures without restrictions.
Current certification still does not allow supporters
In January, CAF suspended the stadium’s approval after identifying several shortcomings.
The continental governing body reportedly raised concerns over sanitation facilities, insufficient medical equipment and a number of other technical issues.
Progress has since been made.
During September, the suspension was partially lifted, with the Stade des Martyrs receiving Category 3 approval.
That status allows matches to be staged at the venue, but under certain restrictions, including the requirement to play without spectators.
For a stadium capable of holding around 80,000 fans, that would represent a major loss of atmosphere and home advantage.
