AFCON 2025 Records First Major Controversy

AFCON 2025 Records First Major Controversy

Sampson Adedeji

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations has witnessed its first major controversy following a VAR malfunction during DR Congo’s 1-0 victory over Benin on Tuesday in Rabat, BSNSports.com.ng reports.

The incident occurred during the fifth match of the tournament, with the Video Assistant Referee system failing at a crucial moment, potentially denying Benin a clear penalty.

About an hour into the encounter, and just minutes after Cédric Bakambu’s goal was ruled out for offside, Benin had a strong appeal for a penalty. 

From a free kick delivered by Jodel Dossou, DR Congo defender Chancel Mbemba appeared to handle the ball inside the penalty area, with his arm clearly away from his body.

Under normal circumstances, referee Tom Abongile would have consulted VAR to review the incident. 

However, the South African official informed both team captains that the VAR system was not functioning, making it impossible to review the footage.

The stoppage led to nearly 20 minutes of disruption, as match officials repeatedly halted play to discuss the situation. 

VAR was eventually restored towards the closing stages of the game, but the damage had already been done, leaving Benin players visibly frustrated.

Benin defender Olivier Verdon expressed his disappointment after the match.

“I received information that there was a handball in the box, but I don’t know if VAR was working at that moment. It’s unfortunate,” Verdon said in the mixed zone. 

“If there was a handball and VAR wasn’t working, it’s a shame for us. We complained several times about the VAR issues, and that’s why there was so much added time. 

After that, we should have scored.”

On the DR Congo side, Bakambu admitted there was confusion on the pitch but played down the controversy.

“I wasn’t really aware of everything that happened,” the Real Betis striker said.

 “I know our goal was disallowed for offside, even though the Beninese were asking for a foul. It was complicated to understand everything. 

The referee explained things to the captains, who then passed the message to us.”

The VAR malfunction has since sparked debate and criticism, marking an early talking point in the AFCON 2025 tournament one that is likely to continue generating discussion in the days ahead.