AFCON 2025: Deprived of its core players, Benin loses to DR Congo as expected.

Benin missed its AFCON 2025 opener. Facing DR Congo this Tuesday in Rabat, the Cheetahs fell by the narrowest of margins (1-0) on the first matchday of Group D. Well started by Gernot Rohr’s men, the match swung after a defensive coordination lapse punished as early as the 15th minute.

Despite a brave reaction and several promising opportunities, the Beninese ran into a well-organized Congolese defense. The substitutions made in the second half were not enough. The clash against Botswana already looks crucial.