DR Congo Opens AFCON 2025 with Solid Win
An early breakthrough set the tone in Rabat as DR Congo made a confident start to the tournament.
Leopards Set the Tone Early
The Democratic Republic of the Congo began their TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 campaign with a composed victory over Benin at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat.
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Coming into the tournament with confidence after a strong run in FIFA World Cup 2026 qualifying, the Leopards asserted themselves from the opening minutes, controlling possession and dictating the tempo.
Bongonda Delivers the Early Breakthrough
That early dominance was rewarded in the 16th minute. Théo Bongonda capitalized on a defensive mix-up and calmly finished past Saturnin Allagbé to put DR Congo in front.
The goal underlined a sharp opening spell from the Leopards, who consistently found space and looked comfortable playing on the front foot.
Sustained Pressure and Missed Chances
After taking the lead, DR Congo continued to apply pressure, circulating the ball with purpose against a Benin side missing five suspended starters.
Cédric Bakambu came close to doubling the advantage, forcing an excellent one-on-one save from Allagbé, while another attacking move was ruled out for offside as DR Congo threatened to pull clear.
Benin Pushes Late, DR Congo Holds Firm
The Cheetahs refused to fold and looked for a response through quick counters and set pieces, but clear chances were hard to come by against a disciplined Congolese back line that dealt well with aerial balls and second chances.
Benin pressed in the closing stages with determination, yet lacked the cutting edge to break through. DR Congo, by contrast, saw out the match with maturity, kept a clean sheet and secured three valuable points to open their AFCON 2025 campaign.
