Machapa finds joy DRC

Zimbabwe Warriors utility player, Oscar Machapa.

Speaking to The Zimbabwean this week, Machapa, who has previously played for Moroka Swallows in South Africa before his brief return home to join Dynamos, showed he had been swept away with the standards of the DRC game, describing it as “the best league in Africa”.

Machapa joined the Kinshasa-based outfit on a three-year deal three months ago. “In the three months I have been here, I can conclude that this country has the best run soccer league in Africa,” he said.

“I have been exposed to a high level of professionalism in every aspect of the game and that’s what a player needs to deliver. The administration of players, supporters and sponsors actually made me realise that other African countries are still lagging behind in professionalism. I have been to South Africa, which is also one of the best-run leagues but without taking anything away from them, they are still behind the level of the DRC, despite being better-sponsored.”

He was also happy with the support from the terraces. “I have also admired the way supporters conduct themselves. This is one of the best-supported leagues in Africa and the turn-out of fans at matches is better than what I had gotten used to in Zimbabwe and SA. On top of that, fans from opposing teams tolerate each other and understand that football is just a game to keep everyone happy. I am having the best time of my professional football career.”

With his new outfit, Machapa is set to participate in the CAF Champions league, as are once again one of the clubs representing DRC. “I am happy that I will play in the biggest club tournament in Africa and with the way things are going, I am confident that I will contribute positively. They showed me appreciation by giving me a chance to be part of them by signing me. I have to repay their trust on me by delivering.”

With five games played thus far, AS Vita are currently placed fifth in the 10-team Super League Zone West division of the 30-team DRC league that is split into three divisions – East, West and South Central.
The DRC league is also the home to another Zimbabwean star, Ali Sadiki, who is with Caf Champions League finalists, TP Mazembe.