Sadio Mane secures vital draw for Senegal versus DR Congo at AFCON

Sadio Manes equalising goal helped the 2022 winners Senegal secure a 1-1 stalemate against the Democratic Republic of Congo during their key Africa Cup of Nations encounter on Saturday.

Cedric Bakambu put the Leopards ahead shortly after the hour in Tangiers, yet the Al Nassr striker Mane responded promptly, allowing Senegal to remain leaders of Group D with one fixture left.

Each side has four points, though Senegal edges ahead thanks to better goal difference ahead of their last group game versus Benin on Tuesday.

Benin collected three points following a 1-0 success earlier that day in Rabat over Botswana, who sit at the bottom with no points or goals to their name.

Under Sebastien Desabre, the Congolese team aimed to avenge a thrilling loss in their previous clash during World Cup qualifiers back in September.

Senegal had overturned a 2-0 deficit to claim a 3-2 victory in Kinshasa, enabling them to lead their group and qualify for next years tournament in North America.

The DR Congo side ended up in second but could still reach the World Cup by winning a single play-off against either New Caledonia or Jamaica in Mexico this March.

After a 3-0 triumph over Botswana and viewed as a major rival to Moroccos home title hopes, Senegal dominated possession and opportunities in this match.

Still, the Leopards struck first in the 61st minute as Theo Bongonda, who netted the sole goal in their initial win over Benin, saw his effort from a smooth attack saved by Edouard Mendy, only for Real Betis forward Bakambu to tap in the rebound.

Senegal trailed for just eight minutes, levelling through a brilliant surge by substitute teenager Ibrahim Mbaye.

The 17-year-old Paris Saint-Germain winger, born in France and capped for them up to Under-20, has lately pledged his international allegiance to Senegal via parental eligibility.

He came on for Ismaila Sarr right after Bakambus strike and set up the equaliser with a dashing run on the right flank.

Mbaye evaded Arthur Masuaku, who seemed hurt in the challenge attempt, before his attempt was stopped by Lionel Mpasi, leaving Mane to finish.

This marked Manes 10th AFCON strike for the ex-Liverpool star at his sixth edition.