AFCON: DR Congo begins Campaign with 1-0 win over Benin Republic

By Tosin Omojola –

The Democratic Republic of Congo got their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) campaign off to a winning start, defeating Benin Republic 1-0 on Tuesday.

Theo Bongonda’s early strike proved enough to secure the victory for the Congolese in their opening Group D encounter at Al Medina Stadium, Rabat.

The Spartak Moscow winger’s 16th-minute long-range effort caught Benin’s defence off guard and proved decisive in a tense Group D clash played in front of a crowd largely supporting the Leopards.

The Congolese appeared to have extended their lead shortly after the restart when Cedric Bakambu headed in from close range following a Nathanael Mbuku delivery. However, celebrations were cut short after a lengthy VAR review ruled the goal out for offside.

Sebastien Desabre’s side held on to their slim lead until the final whistle, earning three crucial points in a group that also features reigning champions Senegal and Botswana.

The win keeps alive DR Congo’s hopes of a deeper run—a feat they have not achieved since lifting the trophy as Zaire in 1974—and adds momentum to a squad also aiming for qualification to the 2026 World Cup.