Les Léopards Dames are just 15 days away from the first stage of the qualifiers for the 16th Women’s Africa Cup of Nations (CAN) in Morocco 2026. They will face the Mares from Botswana in a double confrontation: first on Thursday, February 20th in Gaborone, and then on Wednesday, February 26th, 2025 at the Stade des Martyrs. These two crucial matches in the first round will play a significant role in shaping the future of the Congolese team. If they manage to qualify for the second and final round, they will face the reigning African champions, Banyana Banyana from South Africa, who are eagerly awaiting their potential challenge.
The Léopards Dames are expected to cause a stir, despite a challenging 2024. Even with the reinforcement of Olga Massombo in May 2024 during the Morocco training camp, the team faced difficulties. Olga Massombo, an attacker from Mazatlán in Mexico, shared her exclusive insights in an interview with Actualité. She reflected on the team’s performance in 2024, where they struggled to secure a single victory in six matches. Massombo attributed the team’s shortcomings to a lack of mental preparation and emphasized the importance of a well-structured group dynamic.
As a left winger, Massombo highlighted the challenges faced by the team’s offensive line, which only managed to score a total of 5 goals in 6 matches. She pointed out the need for better connectivity with her teammates and the freedom to express themselves on the field. Massombo stressed that with a professional and calm environment, the team’s offensive capabilities could flourish.
When asked about the absence of their coach, Papy Kimoto, Massombo expressed the team’s need for his leadership. While acknowledging the contributions of the assistant coaches, she emphasized the pivotal role of the head coach in guiding the team effectively. Massombo highlighted the importance of Kimoto’s presence in every training session to steer the team in the right direction.
Reflecting on her integration into the team, Massombo noted that while her social integration was smooth, she still needed time to find her footing on the field. She believed that once she felt comfortable during matches, she could fully leverage her skills and connect effectively with her teammates.
In terms of the team’s overall level and technical qualities, Massombo acknowledged the need to develop tactical intelligence to elevate the team’s performance. She believed that refining their tactical approach and game intelligence would propel the team to a higher level of competition.
Despite the challenges faced by the team, Massombo expressed her admiration for all her teammates, including Grâce, Flavine, Gloria, Naomie Kabakaba, and others. With five months remaining until the CAN, Massombo stressed the importance of fostering a positive mindset, team spirit, and financial motivation, along with the need for a strict and experienced coach to bring out the best in the team.
Participating in the CAN holds immense significance for Massombo, representing not only national pride but also serving as a beacon of inspiration for young Congolese girls. She emphasized the message of perseverance and hard work, underscoring the idea that women in the DRC can achieve anything they set their minds to.
Looking ahead to the upcoming CAN qualifiers, where they will face Botswana in the first round, followed by a potential showdown with South Africa in the second round, Massombo emphasized the team’s focus on one match at a time. She acknowledged the challenges posed by formidable opponents but remained committed to giving their best effort, regardless of the circumstances.
As the team prepares to navigate the complexities of the qualifiers and strive for a consecutive qualification, Massombo’s insights shed light on the team’s determination, challenges, and aspirations for the future. The journey ahead may be arduous, but with unity, resilience, and a clear vision, the Léopards Dames are poised to make their mark on the African football stage.