Exclusive interview - Yves Diba Ilunga: "Bongonda, the X factor for the Leopards in 2026 World Cup intercontinental play-offs"

In partnership with

Foot Africa

·25 Maret 2026

Exclusive interview - Yves Diba Ilunga: "Bongonda, the X factor for the Leopards in 2026 World Cup intercontinental play-offs"

Interview

Bongonda, the X factor for the Leopards at the 2026 World Cup, according to Yves Diba Ilunga

Video OneFootball

Bongonda/@sportnewsafrica

The DR Congo national team will be looking to rewrite history on March 31, when they take on the winner of the New Caledonia vs Jamaica match in the final of the intercontinental play-offs for a spot at the 2026 World Cup.

The Leopards are aiming to secure Africa's 10th ticket, joining Morocco, Senegal, Algeria, Tunisia, Egypt, Ivory Coast, Ghana, Cape Verde, and South Africa, who have already qualified.

To discuss this major event, Foot Africa spoke with former DR Congo international Yves Diba Ilunga, a key figure in DR Congo’s African Nations Championship (CHAN) triumph in 2009.

Now retired, the former Molenbeek (Belgium) player graciously answered questions from the Foot Africa editorial team.

First of all, how do you assess Sébastien Desabre’s squad selection for the intercontinental play-offs?

The coach has his own vision and playing philosophy, which require very specific player profiles. I hope Sébastien Desabre’s list was drawn up with this in mind, regardless of any criticism from outside. What matters most is squad cohesion and that the players fit the system’s demands.

Between New Caledonia and Jamaica, which opponent do you think is more manageable?

Nowadays, there are no small teams in football. Every opponent must be taken very seriously. That being said, the Leopards should take advantage of their fresher legs, as their potential opponent will have just come through a tough first play-off match on March 27.

Could the time difference disrupt the Leopards before this decisive clash?

Definitely not. I went through this myself during our match against Mexico at the Azteca Stadium in 2007, which we lost 2-1. The Leopards’ greatest strength is their competitive mentality, which is currently boosted by a positive team dynamic.

DR Congo haven’t played in a World Cup for over half a century. Is this an extra source of motivation or a tough pressure to handle?

It’s clearly a source of motivation. As for pressure, I don’t think it’s an issue, as most players compete at a high level, where handling pressure is part of everyday life.

What aspects does the Congolese team need to improve upon compared to their recent AFCON campaign?

In the last AFCON, the Leopards showed a different face compared to the previous edition in Ivory Coast. In 2024, we saw a team capable of dictating the tempo, pressing high, and dominating opponents. Regaining that intensity and ability to control the game will be essential.

What would your ideal scenario be for this final?

The ideal would be to take control of the game right from the start. It’s important not to be too passive, as we were at times in Morocco, and to impose our style from the opening minutes.

What mistakes must be avoided at all costs in such a crucial match?

It’s absolutely vital not to concede a goal, especially in challenging conditions like Mexico’s high altitude, which can make any comeback extremely difficult.

Which players do you count on to make the difference?

Théo Bongonda has tremendous potential. It’s up to him to fully realize his abilities and step up to take responsibility, making the most of every ball he gets.

If you had to pick the Leopards’ starting eleven for this intercontinental play-off final, what would your line-up be?

If I were the coach, I’d go for a 4-4-2 diamond, which could switch to a 4-3-3, with Bongonda as a free agent able to drift inside.Epassy (or Efolo)Wan-Bissaka – Mbemba – Kapuadi – MasuakuPickel – Mukau – SadikiBongondaMayele – Bakambu