European Weekend Delivers Mixed Results
Congolese fans checking match updates on Sunday night didn’t find a single story. Instead, the nation’s professionals abroad produced a mosaic of wins, draws, and painful losses across six leagues, highlighting how competitive minutes in Europe remain both a privilege and a ruthless test.
The latest data, gathered from official league feeds and club communications, highlights form trends that could shape the November international window.
Albanian Derby Slips Away from Partizani Tirana
The capital clash between Dinamo Tirana and Partizani was seen as a decisive test for title ambitions. Without striker Archange Bintsouka, absent from the squad after a demanding run of matches, Partizani lacked penetration and conceded two goals, losing 0-2 at the Arena Kombëtare.
The coach lamented the absence of the Congolese striker, citing a minor training injury mid-week. Partizani remains third but now trails surprise leader Egnatia by five points after nine matchdays.
Beka Beka Carries La Louvière in Belgian Cup
Six months after a groin strain, Alexis Beka Beka finally laced up his boots for La Louvière Centre and immediately helped the Wolves beat lower-division Heist 2-1 in the Belgian Cup round of 16. The midfielder came on in the 65th minute and brought composure as rain soaked the Armand Melis stadium.
The staff stated: “Alexis is back, but we must manage his minutes.” If he maintains this trajectory, the former Valenciennes player could add depth to the Congolese midfield alongside Gaius Makouta.
Serie A Tests Bondo and Sidelines Nkounkou
Northern Italy offered different realities. In Genoa, Warren Bondo shielded Cremonese’s back four and preserved a 2-0 lead until the 88th minute, leaving the pitch to applause from traveling tifosi. Official statistics credited him with nine recoveries and 92% passing accuracy.
Meanwhile in Emilia-Romagna, Torino was held to a 0-0 draw by Bologna. Absent, left-back Niels Nkounkou is still treating a muscle injury sustained on the eighth matchday. The medical staff plans “ten additional days of individualized work,” tempering hopes for a quick return.
The coach nonetheless praised the defender’s professionalism: “Niels is pushing to rejoin the group, but science dictates patience.”
Atalanta U21 Advances in Coppa Serie C
Further south, the Bergamo youth team qualified 2-1 against Alcione Milan in the Coppa Serie C. Right-back Digne Pounga, 20, started well, receiving a yellow card for a tactical foul before being substituted in the 77th minute. Club insiders see him as a candidate for Gian Piero Gasperini’s senior bench later in the season.
Pounga’s maturation illustrates the federation’s bet on youth exports. “Playing on the Italian tactical chessboard