CS Don Bosco and FC Simba Settle for a Point in Stalemate at Stade des Martyrs

In a clash that pitted two mid-table sides from the DR Congo Vodacom Ligue 1, CS Don Bosco and FC Simba played out a goalless draw on the evening of 29 May 2026. The match, staged at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa, was a tightly contested affair that saw few clear-cut chances but plenty of midfield battles. Both teams came into the fixture looking to climb the standings, but ultimately neither could break the deadlock.

Match Overview

The encounter kicked off under floodlights at 21:00 local time, with both sides showing early intent. CS Don Bosco, playing on their home turf, sought to impose themselves through possession-based football. FC Simba, known for their counter‑attacking discipline, sat deep and waited for opportunities on the break. The first half was largely characterised by tactical caution, with defenders dominating attackers. Shots on target were rare, and the goalkeepers were rarely tested.

Key Moments

• 16th minute: CS Don Bosco’s winger, Kabongo Tshimanga, cut inside from the left and fired a low shot that skimmed just wide of the far post – the closest either side came in the opening period.
• 42nd minute: FC Simba’s striker, Mbuyi Kalala, latched onto a long ball but his snapshot was smothered by Don Bosco goalkeeper Nkulu Wa Nkulu.
• 68th minute: A dangerous free‑kick from Simba’s captain, Mpiana Ntumba, curled over the wall and forced a diving save from Nkulu, the only real moment of brilliance in the match.
• 85th minute: Don Bosco substitute Lukusa Banza had a header from a corner cleared off the line by a Simba defender, ensuring the stalemate.

Tactical Story

CS Don Bosco operated in a 4‑3‑3 formation, attempting to build play through central midfielders Kanyinda and Mwamba. However, FC Simba’s compact 4‑4‑2 shape frustrated their rhythm. Simba’s double pivot of Mbala and Kabasele effectively screened the back four, limiting Don Bosco’s ability to play incisive passes. On the counter, Simba relied on the pace of winger Ilunga, but final‑ball quality was lacking. The match played out mostly in the middle third, with neither team willing to risk an all‑out attacking approach.

Standout Players

• Nkulu Wa Nkulu (CS Don Bosco): The home goalkeeper was alert throughout, making two solid saves and commanding his area well from crosses. His distribution also helped launch quick transitions.
• Mpiana Ntumba (FC Simba): The Simba captain was a driving force in midfield, winning tackles and delivering set pieces with precision. His free‑kick nearly broke the deadlock.

Table Impact

The point keeps CS Don Bosco in 8th place with 24 points after 17 matches, while FC Simba remain 10th with 22 points. Both sides are separated by just two points in a congested mid‑table, and this result does little to change their positions. However, the clean sheet for Simba builds defensive confidence, while Don Bosco will rue missed chances at home. With the season approaching its final stretch, every point matters in the battle for continental qualification and avoiding the relegation zone.