Despite missing in Coach Florent Ibenge’s team for the final round of AFCON 2017 qualifiers against Central African Republic on Sunday September 4, the legendary “Leopards” and TP Mazembe veteran keeper, Robert Kidiaba Muteba will grace the encounter at Stade des Martyrs, Kinshasa as a guest of honor.
The great honor, usually a preserve of the political class in Africa has been extended to the 40-year old former AS Saint-Luc player by the DR Congo football federation (FECOFA).
“Kidiaba will attend the match not as one of the selected players but as a football icon just to support the Leopards during the decisive match.” The African champions posted online.
Born in Lubumbashi, Kidiaba who debuted for the Leopards in 2002 is a celebrated football legend both in his native DR Congo and Africa at large – he is famed for “Bum Shuffle” goal celebration, a routine that involves bouncing around his penalty area on his backside.
In December 2014, he announced intention to quit international duty after AFCON 2015, a decision he rescinded after the tournament. He has since dropped down the perking order at club and national level.
Group “B” leaders DR Congo on ten points, three behind CAR will need at least a draw in the tie to sail through, however, they can still make it with a loss as one of the two best group runner ups.
@bonfaceosano
