In a thrilling Group D clash at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon), Senegal and DR Congo battled to a 1-1 draw that left both teams on the cusp of the knockout stages. But here's where it gets intriguing: this wasn't just any draw—it was a game of comebacks, missed opportunities, and tactical brilliance that showcased why these two footballing powerhouses are forces to be reckoned with. Let's break it down.
The Leopards struck first in Tangier, with Cedric Bakambu pouncing on a rebound in the 61st minute after Senegal’s goalkeeper Edouard Mendy failed to hold onto Theo Bongonda’s low shot. It seemed like DR Congo might just edge out the victory—until Sadio Mane stepped up to save the day. Just eight minutes later, substitute Ibrahim Mbaye sliced through the defense, forcing Congolese keeper Lionel Mpasi into a save, and Mane calmly slotted home the equalizer, leaving Aaron Wan-Bissaka helpless on the line. Talk about clutch!
But this is the part most people miss: Senegal now tops Group D with four points, ahead of DR Congo on goal difference. Benin sits third with three points, while Botswana, after a 1-0 loss to the Cheetahs earlier on Saturday, is on the brink of elimination. With the final group fixtures set for Tuesday (15:00 GMT), Senegal faces Benin in Tangier, and DR Congo takes on Botswana in Rabat. Four points should theoretically secure progression for both Senegal (the 2021 Afcon champions) and DR Congo (2021 semi-finalists), but the group winner gets a potentially easier matchup against a third-placed finisher. Who will seize that advantage?
Now, let’s rewind to the buildup. After Senegal’s 3-0 thrashing of Botswana and DR Congo’s 1-0 win over Benin earlier in the tournament, expectations were sky-high. Especially considering Senegal’s dramatic 3-2 comeback win over DR Congo in Kinshasa during 2026 World Cup qualifying—a result that sealed their spot in next year’s tournament. Yet, the first half in Tangier was surprisingly subdued. DR Congo failed to register a single shot on goal, while Senegal dominated possession, with Nicolas Jackson and Pape Gueye coming close but failing to convert.
Here’s where it gets controversial: Wan-Bissaka thought he’d given DR Congo the lead in the 14th minute, but Bongonda’s offside position from Arthur Masuaku’s cross ruled it out. Was it the right call? Or did VAR rob the Leopards of a deserved lead? Let us know in the comments!
The second half was a different story. Sebastien Desabre’s side came out with renewed purpose, and Noah Sadiki’s powerful shot forced Mendy into action before Bakambu’s goal broke the deadlock. Senegal’s equalizer, however, was a masterclass in teamwork, with Mbaye’s direct runs proving decisive. The final 20 minutes saw both teams settle for a point, virtually securing their spots in the next round.
But here’s the burning question: With Senegal and DR Congo looking strong, is this the group that will produce the next Afcon champion? Or will Benin or Botswana pull off a shock upset in the final fixtures? Share your predictions below—this tournament is far from over!
