Congo’s Striker Battles AFCON Without His Bags: An Unforgettable Luggage Saga
1 January 2026
Luggage Woes on the AFCON Field
Cedrick Bakambu, the Democratic Republic of Congo striker who also plays for Real Betis, voiced his disappointment after his luggage went missing in Morocco, saying he is playing in the Africa Cup of Nations without his personal items.
Group Stage Glory Amid Missing Bags
Bakambu has featured in two group matches for Congo in the AFCON, scoring a goal in the 1-1 draw with Senegal.
Away from the pitch, he continues to compete in the tournament despite the absence of his belongings.
On his official X account, he wrote that his bags were supposed to arrive in Morocco on December 19, but they are still missing.
Authorities in Morocco reportedly found the luggage several times, but nothing turned up.
He said he must play AFCON 2025 without any of his personal items.
CONGO advanced to the knockout rounds by finishing second in Group D with seven points.
They will face Group A winners Algeria in the last-16.
Punchline 1: If luggage could talk, Bakambu’s would be asking for a transfer fee to reach the pitch.
Punchline 2: At this rate, the only thing traveling faster than his shots is his bag—clearly on a different flight.
