Senegal came from behind to secure a 1–1 draw against DR Congo in their Group D clash at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON), as both teams moved closer to qualification for the last 16. The Leopards took the lead shortly after the hour mark at the Tangier Stadium when Cedric Bakambu pounced from close range. The goal came after Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy failed to properly deal with a low effort from Theo Bongonda, allowing Bakambu to convert the rebound. Senegal responded eight minutes later, with substitute Ibrahim Mbaye breaking through the Congolese defence to force a save from goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi. The loose ball fell kindly to Sadio Mane, who calmly slotted home past covering defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka to restore parity. READ ALSO: Nigeria, Tunisia Set for Top-of-the-Table AFCON Clash in Fès The result leaves Senegal top of Group D on four points, edging DR Congo on goal difference. Benin sit third on three points, while Botswana remain bottom without a point and on the verge of elimination following a 1–0 defeat to Benin earlier on Saturday. The final round of Group D matches will be played on Tuesday, with Senegal staying in Tangier to face Benin, while DR Congo travel to Rabat to take on Botswana. With four points already secured, both Senegal—champions of the 2021 AFCON—and DR Congo, semi-finalists at the previous edition, are well placed to progress. However, finishing top of the group would offer the added advantage of facing a third-placed team in the knockout stage.
Senegal Hold DR Congo to Draw, Edge Closer to AFCON Last 16
