The Democratic Republic of Congo began their Africa Cup of Nations finals campaign with a hard-fought 1–0 victory over Benin in Group D’s opening game, showcasing dominance but failing to convert control into a bigger scoreline.

Match Highlights


  • 16th minute: Theo Bongonda capitalised on hesitation in Benin’s defence, volleying home after a long pass to give Congo the lead.

  • 29th minute: Bongonda nearly doubled his tally, but Olivier Verdon blocked his goalbound effort.

  • 47th minute: Cedric Bakambu headed in a cross from Nathanael Mbuku, but after a lengthy VAR check, the goal was ruled offside.

  • Second half chances: Bakambu broke through on a counter but saw his shot deflected for a corner.

  • 67th minute: Benin’s Tamimou Ouorou blasted a free kick off target.

  • Final minute drama: Aiyegun Tosin came close to equalising, but goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi preserved Congo’s clean sheet.

Context


  • DR Congo, two-time AFCON champions, showed control and attacking intent but lacked clinical finishing.

  • Benin, making their fifth AFCON appearance, remain winless at the finals (5 draws, 10 defeats since 2004).

  • Congo’s victory builds momentum after winning Africa’s World Cup playoffs in Morocco, setting up their inter-confederation playoff in Mexico against Jamaica or New Caledonia in March.

Tournament Outlook


  • DR Congo sit top of Group D with three points, though they will need sharper finishing in upcoming matches.

  • Benin, despite defeat, showed resilience and will look to end their winless streak in the competition.

  • Groups E and F kick off Thursday before all squads pause for Christmas Day.

This result gives Congo a solid platform, but their inability to kill off the game leaves room for improvement as the group stage unfolds.