Sadio Mane delivered a pivotal moment for Senegal, scoring his 10th career Afcon goal to salvage a 1-1 draw against DR Congo in a gripping Group D encounter at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Tangier.
DR Congo struck first in the 61st minute when Cedric Bakambu pounced on a rebound after Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy spilled Theo Bongonda's low shot. However, the Teranga Lions responded swiftly, with substitute Ibrahim Mbaye bursting through the defense before Mane calmly slotted home the loose ball past Manchester United defender Aaron Wan-Bissaka on the line.
The result leaves Senegal atop Group D on four points, ahead of DR Congo only on goal difference. Benin sit third with three points after defeating Botswana 1-0 earlier in the day, eliminating the latter from contention.
Both teams now look well-positioned to advance, needing only to avoid defeat in their final group matches on Tuesday. Senegal will face Benin in Tangier, while DR Congo meet already-eliminated Botswana in Rabat. Group winners could gain a tactical advantage by facing a third-placed team in the last 16.
The match began cautiously, with DR Congo failing to register a first-half shot on target. Senegal dominated early chances, as Nicolas Jackson fired narrowly wide and Pape Gueye forced a scrambling save from Congolese keeper Lionel Mpasi. The Leopards grew into the game after halftime, with Noah Sadiki testing Mendy before Bakambu's opener.
The draw continues Senegal's strong form after their 3-0 win over Botswana, while DR Congo build on their opening 1-0 victory against Benin. The sides last met in September during World Cup qualifying, where Senegal staged a dramatic 3-2 comeback win in Kinshasa.
Comments (0)
Leave a Comment
Be the first to comment on this article!