The Leopards of DR Congo started their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) journey on a positive note, edging out Benin 1-0 in Group D at Stade El Barid in Rabat.
The decisive moment came in the 16th minute when Benin's Yohan Roche misjudged a long pass from Arthur Masuaku. Theo Bongonda capitalized on the defensive error, slotting a first-time volley into the bottom right corner from close range.
Cédric Bakambu came close to extending the lead in the second half but saw his goal disallowed after a VAR review ruled him offside in the build-up. Bakambu had another chance to double the lead but was denied by Benin goalkeeper Saturnin Allagbe. The Real Betis striker later headed straight at Allagbe from a free-kick, missing another opportunity to secure the game.
Benin had a late chance to equalize when Aiyegun Tosin's shot from a tight angle hit DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi and deflected wide.
The match was extended by 10 minutes due to issues with the referee's communication equipment, but DR Congo held on to secure the victory.
DR Congo, who reached the semifinals under coach Sebastien Desabre in the last tournament, had come into the finals on a high after defeating Cameroon and Nigeria in the Africa's 2026 FIFA World Cup play-offs.
Benin, who had challenged for a place in the 2026 World Cup, were without first-choice goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou and forward Junior Olaitan. The side, managed by former Nigeria boss Gernot Rohr, struggled to make the most of their possession and will look to improve in their next match against Botswana.
Meanwhile, DR Congo will face Senegal in Tangier on the same day that Benin plays Botswana. Senegal could also join DR Congo on three points if they defeat Botswana in the other Group D match on Tuesday.
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