CASABLANCA-(MaraviPost)-Senegal and Democractic Republic of Congo played out a hard fought 1–1 draw in their AFCON 2025 Group D clash on 27 December 2025, proving that there was no easy passage for Senegal.

The first half was closely contested, with both teams approaching the match cautiously due to the high stakes involved. Chances were limited as each side focused on maintaining shape and discipline.

Senegal enjoyed more of the ball in the opening stages and attempted to dictate the tempo through controlled build up play. However, DR Congo stayed organised and frustrated their opponents with a solid defensive display.

Despite Senegal’s pressure, the Leopards stood firm and ensured the match remained goalless at halftime. Their resilience set the tone for what would become a highly competitive second half.

The breakthrough came after the restart when Cédric Bakambu struck to give DR Congo the lead. His goal caught Senegal off guard and underlined the Leopards’ ability to punish any lapse in concentration.

Bakambu’s opener shifted momentum in DR Congo’s favour and silenced Senegal’s dominance, sending a clear message that the Lions of Teranga would not have things their own way.

Forced to respond, Senegal raised the intensity and pushed forward in search of an equaliser. Their pressure eventually paid off when captain Sadio Mané found the back of the net.

Mané’s goal restored parity and injected fresh energy into the contest, setting up an open and tense final phase of the match.

Both sides created opportunities as the game opened up with Senegal hunting for a winner and DR Congo threatening on the counterattack.

DR Congo defended resolutely and held on to secure a valuable point.

The draw saw both Senegal and DR Congo move to four points each after two matches in Group D, keeping the qualification race wide open.

With one round of group games remaining, the result confirmed that at AFCON 2025 there are no easy matches and certainly no walkover for Senegal.

The Maravi Post