DR Congo Edge Past Benin in Tight AFCON 2025 Opener

Introduction

The 2025 Africa Cup of Nations kicked off with a crucial Group D encounter between DR Congo and Benin on 23rd December in Rabat, Morocco. Theo Bongonda scored the only goal as DR Congo opened their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a hard-fought win over Benin. This match holds significant importance as both teams sought a positive start in what promises to be a competitive group, with DR Congo emerging as potential dark horses in the tournament.

Match Details and Key Moments

DRC started well and enjoyed the bulk of the possession in the opening quarter of an hour and it was no surprise when they took the lead, although it did come in slightly odd circumstances. Arthur Masuaku’s long punt forward ought to have been meat and drink for the Benin defenders but they surprisingly opted to let the ball bounce and Bongonda didn’t need a second invitation, stealing in to fire left-footed past Saturnin Allagbe. Despite the early advantage, Benin battled hard but were unable to find a route back into a contest lacking in quality.

The match statistics reflected a closely fought encounter. Possession was split 40.1% to 59.9% in favour of Benin, with Congo DR managing 11 shot attempts to Benin’s 12. The second half saw controversy when Bakumbu thought he had gone one better two minutes into the second half when he got on the end of Nathanael Mbuku’s left-wing cross to guide a header past Allagbe. A lengthy VAR check ruled the goal out, however, with Mbuku adjudged offside.

Significance and Looking Ahead

Bongonda capitalised on some woeful defending to move his country to the top of Group D ahead of this afternoon’s game between Senegal and Botswana. This victory puts DR Congo in a strong position as they pursue their continental ambitions. Benin pushed forward in the latter stages but DRC held firm despite one or two nervous moments from goalkeeper Lionel M’Pasi N’Zau, although he did pull off one excellent save to deny Aiyegun Tosin. For British football fans, the match featured Premier League talent with Manchester United’s Aaron Wan-Bissaka starting for the Leopards. As Group D unfolds, both teams will need to build on this opening fixture, with DR Congo demonstrating the defensive resilience that could take them deep into the tournament, whilst Benin must regroup and capitalise on their possession game in future matches.