The Democratic Republic of the Congo made a winning start to their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 victory over Benin at the Al Barid Stadium in Rabat on Tuesday.
Early breakthrough for the Leopards
The Leopards, fresh from their confidence-boosting World Cup qualifying playoff success, wasted little time in asserting their authority. Théo Bongonda broke the deadlock in the 16th minute, capitalizing on a well-worked move that exposed Benin's backline. The Sunderland defender Arthur Masuaku provided the crucial assist, threading a precise ball that allowed Bongonda to finish with composure.
Benin's resilient response
Despite falling behind, Gernot Rohr's Benin side showed considerable spirit in their quest for an equalizer. The Squirrels dominated possession for large spells after conceding and created several promising opportunities. Their pressure intensified toward the end of the first half, testing the DR Congo defense with sustained attacks, though the breakthrough eluded them heading into the break.
Second-half drama and VAR intervention
The second period followed a similar pattern with both teams trading chances. Cedric Bakambu thought he had doubled DR Congo's advantage with a powerful header from a cross delivered from the left flank. The Real Betis forward's celebration was cut short, however, as VAR intervened to rule the goal out for offside, keeping Benin's hopes alive at 1-0.
With the score still delicately poised, Benin threw everything forward in the final stages. Substitute Olatoundji Tessilmi and the experienced Rachid Moumini worked tirelessly to create openings, but the Leopards' defensive resilience held firm.
Tactical observations
Sebastian Desabre set up his DR Congo side in a disciplined 4-2-3-1 formation, relying on quick transitions and the individual quality of players like Fiston Mayele and the energetic Meshchack Elia. The defensive partnership of Dylan Batubinsika and Rocky Bushiri Kiranga proved solid, limiting Benin to half-chances despite their territorial dominance after the goal.
Benin, operating in a more attack-minded 4-3-3, struggled to convert their superior ball possession into clear-cut scoring opportunities. The absence of clinical finishing proved costly, with several efforts sailing wide or into goalkeeper Matthieu Epolo's grateful hands.
Looking ahead
DR Congo now sit joint-top of Group D following Senegal's commanding 3-0 victory over Botswana in the day's other fixture. The Leopards will face the Teranga Lions on Saturday in what promises to be a fascinating clash for group supremacy.
For Benin, the focus shifts to their meeting with Botswana, where both sides will view the encounter as a must-win affair. The Squirrels showed enough quality to suggest they can compete at this level, but will need to sharpen their finishing if they are to progress to the knockout stages.