DRC: Frustrated quartet walk out of the squad

Four players left the Democratic Republic of Congo camp before their friendly against the Taifa Stars of Tanzania. This was perhaps a case too many for West Ham United’s Arthur Masuaku, Paul-Jose Mpoku of Belgian club Standard Liege, Jordan Ikoko from En Avant Guingamp and Gael Kakuta of Ligue 1 outfit Amiens. The cited reasons for the protest were repeated logistical and organizational problems.

As the four left for their clubs, the faithful had to endure the flight delays, poor quality accommodation with a stern warning that they would follow suit if conditions would remain unchanged. DRC Congo have lost the ensuing match 2-0 in Tanzania to Tanzania. Logistical issues and non-payment of promised allowances are not exactly new in some other African countries and the players seem to be pushing for a revolution to change things. Here is what a Congo Brazzaville striker said last week after he had ditched the team in France over poor treatment of players:

"We will remain vigilant. We will now check a month before our next international to find out what the conditions are. I think a message has been conveyed to the country. And that the conditions will be much better in the future." - Thievy Bifouma