AFCON 2025: Theo Bongonda fires DR Congo past wasteful Benin

AFCON 2025 | Result

Democratic Republic of Congo secured a gritty 1-0 victory over Benin in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) opener at Stade El Barid, Rabat, on Tuesday. 

Last year’s semifinalists began their campaign with a narrow win, demonstrating defensive resilience as they held off a relentless Benin side.

The match began with high energy as both sides sought an early advantage. In the 2nd minute, Nathanael Mbuku delivered a delicate chip into the box, but his teammates were a fraction too slow to connect. 

Ten minutes later, Noah Sadiki showcased his skill by weaving past markers to cross into the area, only for Benin’s goalkeeper, Saturnin Allagade, to react quickly and smother the danger.

The deadlock was finally broken in the 16th minute. Théo Bongonda found the net after being played through by Arthur Masuaku, the forward latched onto the pass and unleashed a powerful strike into the bottom right corner to give Congo the lead.

Benin refused to back down, creating several clear-cut opportunities before the break. In the 25th minute, Doukou Dodo rose highest to meet a well-placed cross, but his header whistled agonizingly wide. 

Just before halftime, Hassane Imourane surged through the heart of the Congolese midfield and let fly with a thunderous effort that cleared the crossbar by inches.

The second half saw DR Congo nearly double their advantage. Cedric Bakambu appeared to have made it 2-0 after a beautiful finish from a Nathanael Mbuku delivery, but the goal was chalked off for offside.

As the match progressed, Benin intensified their pressure. However, Congolese goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi Nzau put on a masterclass between the posts, commanding his area and neutralising every threat to preserve the clean sheet and the three points.

DR Congo will look to build on this momentum as they prepare for a heavyweight clash against Senegal on Saturday, December 27.