Saint Eloi Lupopo 4–0 SM Sanga Balende | DR Congo Vodacom Ligue 1 | 18 January 2026

Match Overview

Saint Eloi Lupopo delivered a statement performance with a thumping 4–0 victory over SM Sanga Balende at the Stade Frédéric Kibassa Maliba in Lubumbashi. The hosts were ruthless from start to finish, climbing into the top two and sending a clear message to their title rivals.

First Half: Early Onslaught

Lupopo needed just five minutes to break the deadlock. Forward Johnny Kafunda turned his marker and fired a low shot into the corner. The floodgates opened in the 24th minute when winger Ferreira Luvumbu doubled the lead with a curling strike from outside the box. Captain Richard Mboyo added a third just before half‑time, converting a penalty after Kafunda was brought down.

Second Half: Ruthless Control

The second half was more of the same. Lupopo continued pressing high and pinned SM Sanga Balende deep inside their own half. In the 62nd minute, substitute striker Justin Bakwadia scored the fourth with a header from a corner. The visitors offered little going forward – their only attempt on target came in the 85th minute and was comfortably saved by goalkeeper Prince Kasongo.

Key Performers

• Johnny Kafunda (Saint Eloi Lupopo) – Scored the opener and created the penalty; a constant menace.
• Ferreira Luvumbu (Saint Eloi Lupopo) – Two assists and a stunning goal; unplayable on the right wing.
• Richard Mboyo (Saint Eloi Lupopo) – Dominated midfield and led by example with a goal and an assist.

League Impact

The comprehensive win propelled Saint Eloi Lupopo to the top of the Vodacom Ligue 1 table on goal difference. For SM Sanga Balende, the heavy defeat highlighted defensive frailties that will need urgent attention if they are to avoid a relegation battle.