By Nabakiibi Dorren Malaika
DR Congo opened their Africa Cup of Nations 2025 campaign with a 1–0 victory over Benin in a Group D match played on Tuesday afternoon in Morocco.
The Leopards took the lead in the 16th minute through Théo Bongonda, whose early strike proved enough in a closely contested game. DR Congo handled the first half well, adapting comfortably to the North African conditions similar to those facing the Uganda Cranes at this year’s tournament. Bongonda punished a defensive lapse to beat goalkeeper Saturnin Allagbé.
Benin enjoyed periods of possession and pushed for an equaliser but were kept out by a well-organised Congolese defence. DR Congo thought they had added a second when Cédric Bakambu scored early in the second half, but the goal was disallowed for offside after a VAR check.
Benin increased the tempo late in the match, but DR Congo held firm to see out the result. The victory puts DR Congo on three points in Group D as they prepare for tougher fixtures ahead. Benin now face an uphill task to stay in contention for qualification.
