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

For its return to the Africa Cup of Nations, the Beninese national team fell to the Leopards of DR Congo (0-1) this Tuesday in Rabat, compromising already its room for maneuver in a tough Group D.

Romaric DéguénonView all articles

Published 23 Dec 2025 at 17:05· Updated 23 Dec 2025

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

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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.