CARA wins Coupe du Congo after 34-year drought

Club athlétique Renaissance-Aiglon (CARA) won the Coupe du Congo on August 14, 2026, marking their first title in the competition in 34 years. The final, held at the Alphonse-Massamba-Débat Stadium in Brazzaville, ended in a 1-1 draw against Jeunesse sportive de Talangaï (JST) before CARA secured a 3-2 victory in a penalty shootout.

JST took the lead in the 84th minute through a header by Ngantsui Ndzion, but CARA equalized in the 89th minute via Berold Nsikou Fila. CARA goalkeeper Chelcy Bonazebi played a decisive role in the shootout.

The tournament's relaunch follows a period of interruptions caused by social unrest and the COVID-19 pandemic. The final was attended by President Denis Sassou-Nguesso, who performed the ceremonial kick-off, signaling high-level state support for the return of national football tournaments.