TP Mazembe Englebert began their DR Congo Vodacom Ligue 1 campaign with a commanding 2-0 victory over Celeste at the Stade TP Mazembe on 20 June 2026. The match, played under the lights at 21:00 local time, saw the reigning giants of Congolese football assert their dominance with a professional performance that highlighted their experience and quality.

Match Overview

From the first whistle, TP Mazembe controlled proceedings, pressing high and circulating the ball with purpose. Celeste, a side known for resilience, defended deep in an attempt to frustrate the hosts, but the pressure eventually told. The home side struck twice in the first half to effectively seal the result before the interval, managing the game comfortably in the second period to secure a clean sheet.

Key Moments

• 14th minute: TP Mazembe opened the scoring through a well-worked set piece. A corner from the left was met by defender Koffi Kouao, who powered a header into the net from six yards out.
• 38th minute: The second goal arrived after a swift counter-attack. Midfielder Patrice Ngoyi released striker Jean-Marc Kasongo, who rounded the goalkeeper and slotted home to double the lead.
• 65th minute: Celeste's best opportunity came from a long-range strike by substitute Yannick Banza that flew narrowly over the crossbar, giving the home fans a momentary scare.
• 80th minute: TP Mazembe could have added a third, but Kasongo's close-range effort was brilliantly saved by Celeste's goalkeeper, preserving a respectable scoreline for the visitors.

Tactical Story

TP Mazembe deployed their usual 4-3-3 formation, with full-backs pushing high to provide width. Their early goal forced Celeste to abandon their defensive game plan, leaving gaps that Mazembe exploited. The midfield trio of Ngoyi, Kabange, and Diallo controlled the tempo, while Celeste struggled to hold possession in the final third. The hosts' defensive line remained disciplined, ensuring goalkeeper Sylvain Gbohouo had a quiet evening.

Season Context

This victory places TP Mazembe at the top of the Vodacom Ligue 1 table early on, sending a strong message to their title rivals. As the most successful club in DR Congo history, Mazembe will be expected to challenge for the championship once again. For Celeste, the match served as a learning experience against one of Africa's elite sides, and they will look to bounce back in their next fixture.