DR Congo Double Downs Bermuda in Guadalajara Friendly
IslandStats.com
Democratic Republic of Congo 2 Bermuda 0
Bermuda’s senior national team suffered a 2-0 defeat to Democratic Republic of Congo at the Jalisco Stadium in Guadalajara, as the Leopards continued their preparations for the intercontinental World Cup play-offs.
Bermuda Starting Line-Up: - Milai Perott, Brighton Morrison, Harry Twite, Julian Carpenter, Daniel Cook, Aunde Todd, Arnezha Astwood, La Zai Outerbridge, Ajani Burchall, Zeiko Lewis, David Jones - Substitutes: - Jaquil Hill, Nathaniel Swan, Kieron Richardson, Amir Dill, Riley Robinson, Logan Jimenez, Roger Lee, Ne-Jai Tucker, Elisha Darrell, Senoj Mitchell, Joshua Joseph
In a match designed to acclimatize the African side to North American conditions ahead of their June qualifiers, DR Congo’s superior physical presence and tactical discipline eventually wore down a resilient Bermuda side. Bermuda, who have struggled for a win in recent outings, showed early defensive organization but were unable to keep the Congolese attack at bay before the break.
Fiston Mayele provided the breakthrough for the Leopards in the 45th minute, reacting quickest to a loose ball in the box to slot home just before the half-time whistle. The goal was a cruel blow for Maurice Lowe’s men, who had worked tirelessly to frustrate their higher-ranked opponents throughout the opening period.
The lead was doubled shortly after the restart. In the 51st minute, Newcastle United forward Yoane Wissa—returning to the international fold after missing the Africa Cup of Nations through injury—confidently converted from the penalty spot to make it 2-0.
Bermuda attempted to find a way back into the contest with several tactical changes late on, but DR Congo’s defensive line, anchored by Chancel Mbemba, remained largely untroubled.
While the result marks another defeat for the islanders, the experience of competing against World Cup-calibre opposition in Mexico provides vital lessons as they look to rebuild following their elimination from the 2026 qualifying groups.
