Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo (DR Congo) delivered a gripping 1-1 draw in Tangier on December 27, 2025, as Group D of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) continued to heat up. With both sides now sitting on four points apiece, the result edges them closer to the knockout rounds, though the final group fixtures promise plenty of drama yet.
The stakes were high from the outset. Senegal, the reigning champions from 2021, entered the match buoyed by a commanding 3-0 victory over Botswana in their opening game. DR Congo, semi-finalists in the previous edition, had also started strong with a narrow win against Benin. The stage was set for a heavyweight showdown, and the fans in Tangier responded in kind, creating a lively, drum-beat-fueled atmosphere that pulsed throughout the stadium.
Yet, for all the anticipation, the first half unfolded with more tension than fireworks. Senegal dominated possession and carved out the better chances, but DR Congo’s defense, marshaled by the likes of Aaron Wan-Bissaka, held firm. Nicolas Jackson came agonizingly close to breaking the deadlock, only to see his effort drift just wide. Pape Gueye’s long-range shot forced a scrambling save from DR Congo’s Lionel Mpasi, but the Leopards offered little going forward and failed to register a shot on target before the break.
After halftime, the contest took on a new complexion. DR Congo emerged with renewed purpose, and it wasn’t long before they found their breakthrough. In the 61st minute, Theo Bongonda, the hero from their opening win, unleashed a low drive that Senegal’s goalkeeper Edouard Mendy could only parry. Real Betis striker Cedric Bakambu, ever the poacher, reacted quickest to tuck home the rebound. It was Bakambu’s second goal of the tournament, and it sent the DR Congo bench into a frenzy.
Senegal’s response was immediate and bold. Coach Pape Thiaw turned to his bench, introducing 17-year-old Paris Saint-Germain winger Ibrahim Mbaye. The French-born teenager, who recently pledged his international allegiance to Senegal, wasted no time making an impact. According to multiple reports, Mbaye “burst away from Arthur Masuaku, who appeared to injure himself going to tackle, and then saw his shot blocked by Lionel Mpasi, but Mane was on hand to score.”
Sadio Mane, ever the talisman, showed his trademark composure to slot the loose ball past the covering defenders. Notably, this was Mane’s 10th AFCON goal, achieved in his sixth appearance at the continental showpiece. “We are not completely unhappy as the AFCON is always tough,” Mane reflected after the match. “It was a tough match and in this competition you cannot underrate any team.”
The equalizer, arriving just eight minutes after Bakambu’s opener, shifted the momentum back in Senegal’s favor. The Teranga Lions pressed forward, energized by Mbaye’s youthful exuberance and Mane’s clinical finishing. However, the final 20 minutes saw both sides settle into a tactical battle, with neither willing to risk it all for a late winner. Chances dried up, and the match ultimately fizzled out into a draw that, while not decisive, leaves both teams well-placed to advance.
The draw means Senegal remains atop Group D on goal difference, with DR Congo right behind. Benin, who earlier in the day celebrated their first-ever Africa Cup of Nations win—a 1-0 triumph over Botswana in Rabat—sit third with three points. Botswana, meanwhile, are rooted to the bottom of the table, still searching for their first goal and point of the tournament after five consecutive Cup of Nations defeats.
The final round of group fixtures, scheduled for Tuesday, December 30, promises to be a nail-biter. Senegal will stay in Tangier to face Benin, while DR Congo head to Rabat to take on Botswana. With four points likely enough for both Senegal and DR Congo to progress, the focus now shifts to who can claim top spot—and the potentially easier path in the knockout rounds that comes with it.
For DR Congo, the match was about more than just points. The Leopards were seeking a measure of revenge after their heartbreaking 3-2 loss to Senegal in World Cup qualifying just a few months prior—a result that saw Senegal clinch direct qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup in North America, leaving DR Congo to face a playoff. That context added an extra edge to Saturday’s encounter, and while DR Congo couldn’t secure all three points, their performance showed they remain a force to be reckoned with.
Senegal, meanwhile, continue to look like one of the favorites for the title. Their attacking depth is the envy of many, with Mane leading the line and young talents like Mbaye emerging at just the right time. The teenager’s breakthrough performance has already sparked excitement among fans and pundits alike. As one observer noted, “Senegal has a new star. The 17-year-old French-born Ibrahim Mbaye rejuvenated his team and provided the impetus for Sadio Mané to score.”
But it wasn’t all smooth sailing for the West Africans. Despite dominating possession and creating more chances, they were made to sweat by a determined DR Congo side. The injury to Arthur Masuaku, who appeared to suffer an Achilles problem while defending against Mbaye, could have ramifications for the Leopards as the tournament progresses.
Elsewhere in the group, Benin’s historic victory over Botswana has injected fresh intrigue into the qualification race. Yohan Roche’s deflected strike was enough to secure the win, ending Benin’s long wait for a victory at the continental finals and keeping their hopes of reaching the last 16 alive. “It is a source of immense pride,” Roche said after the match. “We were aware of the people’s expectations, and we managed to stay focused.”
As the dust settles on a dramatic day in Group D, the picture is clear: Senegal and DR Congo are in pole position, but Benin are lurking, ready to pounce should either of the favorites slip up. The margins are razor-thin, and with the top two teams from each group, plus the four best third-placed sides, advancing to the knockout stage, every goal and every point will count.
With one round left, the group remains wide open. Fans can expect more twists and turns as these African heavyweights battle for supremacy and a shot at continental glory. The next round of matches will not just decide who advances, but could set the tone for the rest of the tournament. Stay tuned—AFCON 2025 is only just getting started.
