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DR Congo vs Benin: AFCON 2025 Opener in Rabat
DR Congo national football team begin their AFCON 2025 campaign with confidence and ambition as they face Benin national football team in Rabat on Tuesday.
The Leopards arrive at the tournament riding a wave of momentum after an impressive run in recent international competitions. Their deep run to the semifinals at AFCON 2023 reaffirmed DR Congo’s status as one of Africa’s most competitive sides, and expectations are high that they can once again challenge for the latter stages of the tournament.
Head coach Sébastien Desabre has built a well-balanced squad combining experience and athleticism. Despite the absence of injured forward Yoane Wissa, DR Congo remain well equipped. The attacking responsibility will be shared by seasoned striker Cédric Bakambu, while Aaron Wan-Bissaka provides pace and penetration from the right flank.
DR Congo also enter AFCON 2025 in excellent form, having won five consecutive matches under Desabre. That streak has placed them within touching distance of qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, adding further belief to a squad that looks tactically settled and mentally strong.
Benin, meanwhile, return to the Africa Cup of Nations after missing the last two editions. The Squirrels face a challenging group that includes DR Congo, Senegal national football team and Botswana national football team, but they arrive determined to compete.
On the touchline, Benin are guided by experienced coach Gernot Rohr, who is taking part in his fourth AFCON finals after previous spells with Nigeria, Niger and Gabon. His tournament know-how could prove vital for a Benin side aiming to frustrate favorites and seize any opportunity that arises.
Head-to-Head: DR Congo vs Benin
- This will be the first meeting between the two nations at the Africa Cup of Nations.
- DR Congo enter the match as clear favorites based on recent tournament performance.
- Benin are seeking their first AFCON group-stage victory since their last appearance in 2019.
The opening match promises a compelling contrast: a confident DR Congo side looking to assert their credentials early, against a Benin team eager to prove they belong back on Africa’s biggest stage.
Watch DR Congo vs Benin live on beIN SPORTS, with exclusive coverage of AFCON 2025.
