By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, 31 December 2025 - Senegal rounded off their 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) group-stage campaign in impressive fashion, cruising to a 3–0 victory over Benin in Tangier on Tuesday to finish top of Group D and secure a place in the Round of 16.
At the same time, DR Congo delivered a commanding performance to beat Botswana 3–0, setting up a strong knockout-stage challenge.
The Teranga Lions showed their quality from early on, gaining the lead 38 minutes in when Abdoulaye Seck rose highest to power home from a Krépin Diatta delivery, giving Senegal a deserved advantage at the interval.
They built on that momentum after the break, with Habib Diallo doubling the lead in the 62nd minute with a clinical finish after a neat build-up involving Sadio Mané.
Senegal made sure of the comfortable scoreline deep into stoppage time. Substitute Cherif Ndiaye calmly converted a penalty in the 97th minute, sealing their third goal and ensuring an unbeaten group stage. Despite a late setback where captain Kalidou Koulibaly received a red card, the Lions of Teranga held firm to complete their campaign with seven points.
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Senegal’s performance not only confirmed their Group D leadership but also saw them finish ahead of DR Congo on goal difference, setting them up with a more favourable knockout path into January’s last 16.
Meanwhile in Rabat, DR Congo showcased their firepower with another emphatic 3–0 win, this time against Botswana.
Midfielder Gaël Kakuta was the standout performer, scoring twice and delivering an assist as the Leopards sealed second place in the group behind Senegal.
The duo of Senegal and DR Congo now prepare for their respective Round of 16 ties, confident after strong group campaigns. Senegal’s next challenge will see them face one of the best third-placed qualifiers, while DR Congo are set for a heavyweight clash with Algeria.
