U17-Dames World Cup: Leopards Secure Victory in Niger
In a thrilling match at the Général Seny Kountchis Stadium in Niamey, the U17 Congolese Women’s National Team, known as Les Léopards cadettes, secured a 2-0 victory over the U17 Niger Women’s National Team, known as the Mena cadettes, on Sunday, January 19, 2024. This win propels the Leopards into the second round of the qualifiers for the U17-Dames World Cup in Morocco in 2025.
Impressive Performance on the Field
The game saw the Congolese team dominate the first half, with Aïcha Grâce opening the scoring in the 15th minute and Esther Heshima sealing the victory with a goal 15 minutes later. The Leopards displayed exceptional skill and precision in their attacks, showcasing their prowess in front of the goal. This strategic gameplay was a result of the team’s coach, Baylon Kabongola, instilling a warrior mentality in the players to disrupt the opponent’s rhythm and seize control of the game.
Coach’s Strategic Approach
Despite only having three days to work with the team before the first match, Coach Kabongola managed to motivate and prepare the players effectively. Looking ahead to the next round of matches in March against the Benin Women’s National Team, known as the Amazones, the coach plans to reinforce the defense with five players, including two full-backs and three central defenders, as well as deploying two strikers and one winger on the offensive end. This strategic approach highlights the coach’s dedication to enhancing the team’s performance and achieving success in future competitions.
Historic Qualification and Future Goals
The qualification of the U17 Congolese Women’s National Team for the second round of the U17-Dames World Cup qualifiers marks a significant milestone in the team’s history. Coach Kabongola and the players are determined to build on this success and continue their impressive performance in the upcoming matches against Benin. With a strong focus on teamwork, strategy, and mental toughness, the Leopards are poised to make a mark on the international stage and showcase their talent to the world.
As a football fan myself, witnessing the dedication and determination of the U17 Congolese Women’s National Team in their recent victory against Niger was truly inspiring. The players’ skill and passion for the game, coupled with Coach Kabongola’s strategic guidance, demonstrate the immense potential of women’s football in the Democratic Republic of Congo. I look forward to following their journey in the upcoming matches and witnessing their continued success on the field.