Democratic Republic of Congo: No African participation for Saint Eloi Lupopo next season.

After a goalless draw with Mazembe, Lupopo officially denied CAF spots for the 2026-2027 season

Africa 14 June 2026 at 13:56

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Democratic Republic of Congo: No African participation for Saint Eloi Lupopo next season.

This is one of the biggest headlines to come out of the conclusion of the 13th round of the Linafoot playoffs held on June 14. Saint Eloi Lupopo will not be taking part in CAF continental club competitions next season.

The final verdict came after a 0-0 stalemate against TP Mazembe in the Lubumbashi derby. Mathematically, it's over. The most popular club in Lubumbashi can no longer finish the season in the top three, which guarantees at least one African spot for DR Congo. The "Railmen" have collected 14 points from 12 rounds and sit sixth in the standings. Even with two playoff matches remaining (a potential 6 points), the gap to third-placed Maniema United, who have 22 points, is 8 points.

🚨𝐅𝐈𝐍 𝐃𝐔 𝐌𝐀𝐓𝐂𝐇 | TP Mazembe and Saint Eloi Lupopo played out a 0️⃣-0️⃣ draw this Sunday at Kamalondo Stadium, in a fiercely contested Lubumbashi derby that saw plenty of excitement but lacked attacking efficiency.

Despite numerous chances from both sides, neither managed to find the net… pic.twitter.com/mirsHvlF6F
— STREAM FOOTBALL RDC (@StreamFootRDC) June 14, 2026

No lifeline left

The disappointment deepens as the Railmen also missed out on the Congo Cup. That tournament could have offered a last-ditch chance to salvage the season and snatch a continental ticket. And so, the curtain falls on a trophyless campaign for the Congolese giants.