Democratic Republic of Congo Defeats Benin in Africa Cup of Nations Opener

The Democratic Republic of Congo secured a narrow 1-0 victory over Benin in their first match of the Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday, thanks to a solitary goal from Theo Bongonda in the Group D encounter.

Playing for Spartak Moscow, Bongonda capitalised on a long ball that the Benin backline failed to deal with, striking on the 16th minute at Rabats Al Medina Stadium.

Shortly after the break, the Leopards believed they had increased their advantage when Cedric Bakambu headed in a cross from Nathanael Mbuku at close quarters, yet the effort was disallowed for offside following an extended VAR review.

That single strike was sufficient for the DR Congo team, supported by most of the spectators, as they aim to advance from a tough group that includes the 2022 winners Senegal and Botswana, with those sides scheduled to meet later that day in Tangier.

The Democratic Republic of Congo reached the semi-finals of the previous Africa Cup of Nations in Ivory Coast at the start of last year, but they have not progressed beyond that stage since claiming the title as Zaire back in 1974.

Under manager Sebastien Desabre, the squad boasts talents such as West Ham United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka and the emerging Sunderland midfielder Noah Sadiki, and they are also targeting a spot at the 2026 World Cup.

Their next challenge is a play-off against either New Caledonia or Jamaica in Mexico during March, with the victor joining Group K at the tournament alongside Portugal, Uzbekistan, and Colombia.