Hibs striker Dominique Malonga joins Congo squad

HIBS forward Dominique Malonga has flown out to Africa to join up with the Congo national squad ahead of their African Cup of Nations qualifiers against Nigeria and Sudan.

Dominique Malonga could face Nigeria and Sudan. Picture: Lisa Ferguson

Malonga, who was born in Paris to Congolese parents, has been capped at under-19 level by France, but is able to play for Congo having not been capped at full level by Les Bleus.

The 24-year-old striker has netted six goals in 10 matches for Hibs, and was named in Congo’s 26-man squad for the match with Nigeria.

Congo have already defeated Nigeria, and are second in Group A behind leaders South Africa.

If they can maintain their form then the Red Devils will qualify for the African Cup of Nations for the first time in 14 years.

Congo will take on Nigeria at the Stade Municipal in Pointe-Noire on November 15, followed by Sudan in Khartoum on November 19.

Malonga could face Celtic stopper Efe Ambrose in the match with Nigeria, and joins 13 other Europe-based players in the Congolese squad.

He told hibernianfc.co.uk: “I’m very excited about the possibility of playing for Congo against Nigeria – it should be a very special experience.

“I’ve never been to Africa before, so to be able to represent the country of my family is something I’m very proud of.”