Match Report: Saint Eloi Lupopo 2–1 Tanganyika | Vodacom Ligue 1
Stade Frédéric Kibassa Maliba, Lubumbashi – 22 February 2026

Saint Eloi Lupopo ended a run of three draws with a hard‑fought 2–1 victory over Tanganyika at their Lubumbashi fortress. The result moved Lupopo into the top four as they continue their push for a place in the CAF Champions League. Goals from striker Jean‑Pierre Kasongo and midfielder Lema Mabidi secured the win, with Tanganyika scoring a late consolation through substitute Hervé Botuli.

Match Overview

Lupopo started with intensity, dominating possession and creating early chances. Their high pressing game forced Tanganyika into defensive errors. The breakthrough came just after the half‑hour mark when Kasongo latched onto a through ball from Mabidi and slotted calmly past goalkeeper Junior Kidiaba. The second goal arrived early in the second half – Mabidi himself scored with a powerful strike from 20 yards.

Tanganyika, who had been second best for most of the match, rallied in the final 15 minutes. With the home crowd already celebrating, Botuli scored a scrappy goal in the 83rd minute to set up a nervous finish. However, Lupopo’s defence, led by veteran captain Joël Kimwaki, held firm to claim all three points.

Key Moments

• 32nd minute: Kasongo opens the scoring with a precise finish after a clever one‑two with Mabidi.
• 54th minute: Mabidi doubles the lead with a thunderous left‑footed shot from outside the box that gave Kidiaba no chance.
• 83rd minute: Botuli pounces on a loose ball inside the six‑yard box to pull one back for Tanganyika.
• 90+2 minute: Tanganyika’s last‑gasp free‑kick is headed over the bar by defender Chris Mukendi.

Tactical Analysis

Lupopo’s manager, Patrice Ngoy, adopted a 4‑2‑3‑1 formation that allowed wide players Clinton Mwepu and Héritier Kabongo to attack with pace. The double pivot of Mabidi and Yannick Mukendi provided balance, protecting the back four effectively. Tanganyika, in contrast, struggled to impose themselves in midfield and lacked a cutting edge until the introduction of Botuli. Their away form remains a concern – they have now lost five of six games on the road this season.

The win lifts Lupopo to fourth place, just two points behind the league leaders. For Tanganyika, defeat sees them drop into the relegation playoff zone. Next up for Lupopo is a difficult trip to Kinshasa to face DC Motema Pembe.