DR Congo on strike ahead of AFCON opener

DR Congo players are on strike ahead of their Africa Cup of Nations opener against Morocco on Monday due to issues with their bonuses.

The two-time winners of the competition have had their preparation for the Group C match interrupted as the squad look to find a resolution to their problems.

Captain Youssouf Mulumbu announced the players’ stance in a video on social media, revealing his frustration at their continued concerns.

“For years and years, it’s always the same,” he said, surrounded by his teammates. “Well, we prepare to play our games and, at the end, there is always a bonus issue.”

Mulumbu later tweeted, though, that the current strike would not affect DR Congo’s participation against Morocco.

“Some situations are reported,” he added. “That said, on January 16, we will proudly defend our flag.”

DR Congo will then take on the Ivory Coast, on January 20, followed by their final group game against Togo on January 24.