Glody Makabi Lilepo’s national team issues have been highlighted with plans underway to get it all sorted out to pave way for his return.
Lilepo has enjoyed encouraging form since moving to Kaizer Chiefs at the beginning of this year, but it hasn’t come with any recognition from the DR Congo selectors.
The 28-year-old has notably played every game at the Soweto giants since making his debut in February.
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"There is a problem, but it can be sorted out," confirms Alain Kibangula.
Kibangula is also Congolese and initiated Lilepo’s first ever move from DR Congo to Eswatini club Mbabane Swallows seven years ago.
While Lilepo has already won 11 caps, he has not played for the national team since he featured in the friendly against Uganda in June 2023 just prior to moving from Al Hilal in Sudan to Valenciennes.
Throughout his 16 months in France, where his club played in the Second Division before being relegated, he never earned any caps despite being called up.
Even though he has now shown good form at Amakhosi since arriving in January, there has been no consideration from national team coach Sebastien Desabre for the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers due to what happened the last time Lilepo was in the squad.
"This issue needs a solution, and I have even pointed this out to my fellow Congolese brother Florent Ibenge, who is now at Azam in Tanzania.
"I have told him that Lilepo is needed back in the national team because the boy is doing well at Chiefs.
"There are allegations involving football politics, but I know Lilepo to be disciplined father of two kids.
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"I deal with players all the time and I have never had issues with Lilepo.
"I hope Lilepo keeps doing good enough for Chiefs to be selected for the AFCON finals and possibly the World Cup if Congo qualifies," says Kibangula.
The Leopards play South Sudan (September 5) and Senegal (September 9).
Photo: Daniel Hlongwane/Gallo Images
