Why did Afimico Pululu choose DR Congo over Angola?

Afimico Pululu, striker for Jagiellonia Białystok in Poland, has finally revealed why he chose to represent the Democratic Republic of Congo at international level, passing up a call-up from Angola.

Despite his Angolan roots and a recent official invitation, the 26-year-old center forward opted to join the Leopards, emphasizing the crucial role that the love and support of the Congolese people played in his decision.

Named for the first time in the squad by head coach Sébastien Desabre, Pululu will feature in friendlies against Mali (June 5) and Madagascar (June 8), as preparations ramp up for the 2026 World Cup qualifiers and the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.

A choice from the heart

The top scorer in this season’s UEFA Europa Conference League with 8 goals, Pululu spoke in an interview with Leopardsfoot: “Mwana Mboka (child of the country, ed.) is very happy to join the Leopards’ den. I am truly proud and honored. It’s a feeling I can’t explain. Just imagining myself wearing this shirt, what a joy.”

He added: “I am grateful to the Congolese people who have shown me their support and love. As they say, never betray (Democratic) Congo. +243, Toza (we are) together.”

A product of FC Basel, the striker is currently valued at €5 million according to Transfermarkt. He’s having a remarkable season at club level, with 51 appearances, 21 goals, and 4 assists across all competitions.

Read also: First call-up for the Leopards for Wan-Bissaka, Pululu and Kapuadi!

Mohamed Rek |

Editorfr, ar, en

Mohamed Rek- sports content writer with over 10 years of experience creating football content in Arabic and French for platforms such as Foot Africa and Starafrica, combining accuracy, creativity, and audience engagement.