DR Congo: a powerful story at the AFCON

A historic nation in African football, the Democratic Republic of Congo has forged a unique relationship with the Africa Cup of Nations. From their very first appearance in 1968, the Leopards made a resounding impact by winning the tournament, laying the foundations for a legacy marked by peaks of glory and more inconsistent campaigns. In total, DR Congo boasts 20 appearances, including the 2025 edition.

The Congolese journey, which includes the period under the name Zaire, unfolds as follows:
– 1968: champion
– 1970: group stage
– 1972: group stage
– 1974: champion
– 1976: final round (championship format)
– 1988: group stage
– 1992: quarter-finals
– 1994: quarter-finals
– 1996: group stage
– 1998: third place
– 2000: quarter-finals
– 2002: group stage
– 2004: quarter-finals
– 2006: quarter-finals
– 2013: group stage
– 2015: third place
– 2017: quarter-finals
– 2019: round of 16
– 2023: fourth place

A two-time African champion and never defeated in a final, DR Congo heads into AFCON 2025 determined to build on the momentum shown in the last edition.

Also read: Egypt: 26 AFCONs, 7 titles

Mahdi Zakaria LAZRI |

Editor

Football web writer creating digital sports content with a focus on news, analysis and stories that reflect passion, accuracy and objectivity.

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DR Congo

AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations