DR Congo got their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) campaign off to a winning start by narrowly beating Benin in their Group D match in Rabat.
The Leopards took the lead in the 16th minute when Benin defender Yohan Roche misjudged a long ball from Arthur Masuaku, allowing Theo Bongonda to volley it into the net from close range.
Cedric Bakambu almost doubled the lead early in the second half, but VAR ruled out his header for a build-up infringement. He later missed another big chance, including a 1-on-1 with Benin goalkeeper Saturnin Allagbe and a free-kick header straight at the keeper.
Benin came close to equalizing in the final minute when Aiyegun Tosin’s shot hit DR Congo keeper Lionel Mpasi’s legs and went wide. Despite 10 minutes of added time caused by technical issues, DR Congo held on for the win.
DR Congo, semi-finalists at the last Afcon under coach Sebastien Desabre, had a strong run into the finals, beating Cameroon and Nigeria in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers. They dominated most of the game against Benin, who were missing key players like goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou and striker Junior Olaitan.
Next, DR Congo will face Senegal in Tangier in a key Group D clash, while Benin will look to bounce back against Botswana.
