DR Congo Open AFCON 2025 Campaign With Narrow Victory Over Benin

DR Congo Open AFCON 2025 Campaign With Narrow Victory Over Benin

By Admin 

The Democratic Republic of Congo began their TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 campaign with a hard-earned 1–0 victory over Benin at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat.

An early goal from Théo Bongonda proved decisive as the Leopards controlled much of the contest before withstanding late pressure to secure all three points.

Buoyed by their recent qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-offs, DR Congo started confidently and imposed themselves from the outset. Their positive approach was rewarded in the 16th minute when Bongonda capitalised on a defensive mix-up, finishing calmly past Benin goalkeeper Saturnin Allagbé.

DR Congo continued to dictate play after taking the lead, circulating the ball efficiently and stretching a Benin side weakened by the absence of five suspended regular starters. Cédric Bakambu went close to extending the advantage, forcing Allagbé into a strong one-on-one save, while another Congolese effort was later ruled out for offside.

Benin showed resilience and gradually grew into the contest, looking to threaten on the counter-attack and from set pieces. Despite their endeavour, clear-cut opportunities were limited as DR Congo’s defence remained organised and alert, dealing effectively with aerial threats and losing second balls.

The Cheetahs applied late pressure in search of an equaliser, pushing men forward and testing the Congolese resolve. However, DR Congo defended with composure and discipline to preserve their lead, sealing a valuable opening win and a clean sheet.