AFCON 2025: Senegal, DR Congo Settle For Gritty Group D Stalemate
2 min read
By Sedara Philip
Group D heavyweights Senegal and DR Congo played out a fiercely contested 1–1 draw on Saturday at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, a result that keeps both sides joint-top of the group with four points apiece.
Cédric Bakambu’s second-half strike had put the Leopards on course for a famous victory, but Senegal captain Sadio Mané once again proved decisive on the continental stage, firing home a late equalizer to ensure the defending champions avoided defeat.
The Al Nassr forward’s goal in the 69th minute marked his 10th AFCON goal in 25 appearances, further cementing his status as one of Africa’s most consistent performers at the tournament.
The equalizer was a deserved reward for Senegal, who carried greater attacking threat for large spells of the contest against a resolute Congolese defence.
However, a costly injury to DR Congo’s experienced left-back Arthur Masuaku proved pivotal.
The Sunderland defender went down at a critical moment, allowing Senegal substitute Ibrahim Mbaye to break through on goal.
The 17-year-old Paris Saint-Germain prodigy saw his initial effort saved by goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, but Mané reacted quickest to slot home the rebound from close range.
Senegal had dominated the first half, pinning the Leopards back and controlling possession.
Mané was at the heart of most attacking moves, creating a clear chance for Nicolas Jackson in the 22nd minute, only for the Chelsea striker to fire wide.
Mané himself came close shortly before halftime, curling a free kick narrowly past the post. DR Congo, by contrast, failed to register a single shot attempt in the opening 45 minutes.
The complexion of the match changed after the break as Sébastien Desabre’s men emerged with renewed intensity. Just after the hour mark, the Leopards shocked the 2021 champions when Théo Bongonda combined smartly with Aaron Wan-Bissaka down the right flank.
Bongonda’s low effort was parried by Senegal goalkeeper Édouard Mendy, but Bakambu pounced on the loose ball to finish from close range and give DR Congo the lead.
Both sides pushed for a winner in the closing stages, but neither could find a decisive breakthrough as the contest ended in a hard-fought stalemate.
With four points each from two matches, Senegal and DR Congo have all but secured qualification for the knockout stages ahead of their final Group D fixtures.
Senegal will take on Benin on Tuesday, while DR Congo conclude their group campaign against Botswana on the same day.
Sedara Philip is a Sports writer, an administrator,Journalist,and editor
