Key Takeaways:
- Théo Bongonda scored in the 16th minute to seal DR Congo’s 1-0 win over Benin
- Benin missed five suspended regular starters but created late pressure without managing an equaliser
- DR Congo claimed all three points at Al Madina Stadium in Rabat to open their AFCON campaign
Match Analysis
The Democratic Republic of Congo have kicked off their Africa Cup of Nations campaign with a narrow but deserved 1-0 win against Benin at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat. Coming off their strong showing to secure a 2026 FIFA World Cup play-off place, the Leopards appeared confident and orchestrated much of the early play.
The key moment came in the 16th minute when Théo Bongonda took advantage of a defensive lapse in Benin’s back line, coolly slotting home past Saturnin Allagbé. This early breakthrough set the tone, granting the Congolese side an edge that they maintained for the remainder of the encounter.
FULL-TIME! 🇨🇩🇧🇯
Theo Bongonda on target as DR Congo open their campaign with victory. 👏#TotalEnergiesAFCON2025 | @tecnomobile pic.twitter.com/ADg3ZYLJLl
— TotalEnergies AFCON 2025 (@CAF_Online) December 23, 2025
Key Moments and Statistics
| Event | Detail |
|---|---|
| Score | DR Congo 1-0 Benin |
| Goal scorer | Théo Bongonda (16th minute) |
| Stadium | Al Madina Stadium, Rabat |
| Benin players suspended | 5 |
| Disallowed Goals | 1 (for DR Congo, offside) |
Player Performance and Tactical Approach
With a depleted squad owing to five suspensions, Benin faced an uphill battle from the outset. DR Congo capitalised, with Cédric Bakambu nearly extending the lead but for a vital save by Allagbé in a one-on-one situation. The Leopards repeatedly tested Benin’s defensive resolve, including a close-range effort ruled out for offside.
Benin’s response focused on quick transitions and set-piece opportunities, yet the Congolese defence stood firm. DR Congo’s defenders repelled aerial threats and managed second balls efficiently, limiting Benin’s scoring opportunities throughout the match.
Final Stages and Outcome
Pressing forward in the latter stages, Benin showed ambition but struggled to carve out clear chances. DR Congo maintained discipline at the back, riding out a late surge of Beninese pressure to record a clean sheet and claim maximum points to open their group stage campaign.
