Timothy Fayulu #16

Profile

First called up in 2019 while emerging as one of the most promising goalkeepers in Switzerland, Fayulu was initially seen as the future of DR Congo. But he suddenly turned his back on the Leopards after accepting a Switzerland Under-20 call-up instead. He even went live on Instagram to defend his decision. Humiliated, DR Congo fans branded him a traitor. As his international prospects with Switzerland faded, Sébastien Desabre surprisingly recalled him four years later as a third-choice goalkeeper despite lingering hostility from supporters. Then came November’s Caf playoff against Nigeria. Thrown on specifically for the penalty shootout, he produced two decisive saves to send DR Congo to the intercontinental playoffs. Carried by his teammates after the match, the goalkeeper — who spent last season on loan in Armenia — completed one of the most unexpected redemption arcs. “Whether I play or not, when my country calls me, I’m always ready,” he said during Afcon.

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