Democratic Republic of Congo defender Padou Bompunga is disappointed with the fact that he will not be available for selection when his team take on Mali in the final of the 2016 Africa Nations Championship (CHAN) on Sunday.

The AS Vita player was awarded a second yellow card in his team’s semi-final victory over Guinea this week, suspending him from the title decider this weekend.

An entertaining 120 minute semi-final between the Democratic Republic of Congo and Guinea ended in favour of the Congolese after coming down to a penalty shootout.

Jonathan Bolingi scored for the Leopards while Ibrahima Sory Sankhon equalised late on, leading to a shootout in which Congo DR emerged the victor. They will now face Mali in the final, after the Eagles overcame Cote D’Ivoire with a narrow 1-0 win.

Bompunga’s contribution to his team’s successful run to the final has been important, as a steadfast member of the back-line and a player who was part of all five games thus far.

He also scored a fundamental extra-time goal against Rwanda in the quarter-finals of the competition to ensure his side’s passage to the last eight at the expense of the hosts.

Discussing the matter briefly, the player expressed his disappointment, but was eager to focus on his pleasure at seeing his side reach the final of the competition in Rwanda.

“I feel bad that I will miss that game. But I am happy to see my team get to the final,” he said, according to AfricanFootball.

Congo DR coach Florent Ibenge will need to replace Bompunga with one of his other charges, and will be hoping that his absence will not be felt against Mali.