CAN 2027 (Q): DRC forced to play behind closed doors?

The Leopards of the DRC are likely to play behind closed doors during their match against Equatorial Guinea on September 24 at the Stade des Martyrs in Kinshasa due to the stadium's partial approval, which is still under construction. The Congolese Football Federation has not yet confirmed this decision, which would be a setback for the team hoping to reconnect with their fans after the 2026 World Cup. The stadium has received a category 3 approval, meaning it cannot host spectators.