DR Congo began their quest for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations with a hard-earned 1-0 victory over Benin in Group D, played in Rabat. The decisive moment came in the 16th minute when Theo Bongonda exploited a defensive error from Benin’s Yohan Roche, who misjudged a long pass, allowing Bongonda to score.
The Leopards consistently pressed for a second goal throughout the match, with Cedric Bakambu coming close to extending their lead. However, VAR intervened and Benin’s goalkeeper Saturnin Allagbe made several crucial saves to keep his team in the game. Benin fought back in the dying moments, nearly equalizing through Aiyegun Tosin, whose shot barely missed the target.
Despite an intense finish, which included ten minutes of added time, DR Congo held on to their slim advantage, securing three vital points. Looking ahead, the team is set to take on Senegal in their next Group D match, while Benin will prepare to face Botswana. This opening win sets an encouraging tone for DR Congo’s ambitions in the tournament as they strive for further achievements.