DR Congo Kicks Off AFCON 2025 with a Gritty Victory : DR Congo vs Benin

On December 23, 2025, at the Al Barid Stadium in Rabat, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) faced off against Benin in a match that showcased defensive resilience, a moment of brilliance, and the unpredictable drama that makes African football so captivating. In the end, the Leopards clawed their way to a hard-fought 1-0 win, setting a positive tone for their campaign.

A Strong Start Sets the Tone

From the opening whistle, DR Congo looked the more composed side, pressing high and dictating the tempo. Their confidence was evident, buoyed by recent successes like qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup play-offs. It didn't take long for that dominance to pay off. In the 16th minute, Théo Bongonda capitalized on a defensive mix-up in the Benin backline, slotting the ball past goalkeeper Saturnin Allagbé with a composed finish.

Described by some as a "first-half volley," this goal was a testament to Bongonda's sharp instincts and proved to be the match-winner. The Leopards could have extended their lead soon after. Veteran striker Cédric Bakambu found himself in a one-on-one situation but was denied by a strong save from Allagbé.

Another effort from Bakambu was ruled out for offside, keeping the scoreline tight and the Squirrels of Benin in the game. These missed opportunities added an layer of tension, as DR Congo's early control could have easily translated into a more comfortable margin.

Standout Performers and Tactical Insights : DR Congo vs Benin

Théo Bongonda was undoubtedly the hero for DR Congo, not just for his goal but for his overall contribution to the team's attacking flair. Bakambu, too, was a constant threat, though he'll rue those missed opportunities.

On the Benin side, Allagbé's heroics in goal kept his team in contention, proving why he's a reliable shot-stopper even under pressure.

Tactically, DR Congo's early aggression paid dividends, but their inability to kill off the game highlights areas for improvement as they face tougher opponents in Group D. Benin, meanwhile, can take heart from their defensive solidity and fighting spirit, qualities that could serve them well in upcoming matches.

Current Group D Standings

What This Means for AFCON 2025

This victory gives DR Congo three crucial points to kickstart their bid for glory in a tournament where they've historically punched above their weight, including a semi-final appearance in 2015. For Benin, the loss is a setback, but their performance suggests they could still cause upsets if they regain their full squad.