Théo Bongonda’s early strike proves decisive as Leopards hold firm against resilient Cheetahs.

Leopards Secure Narrow Victory in Rabat

DR Congo kicked off their AFCON 2025 campaign with a hard-fought 1-0 win over Benin in their Group D opener at the Al Medina Stadium (or Stade El Barid) in Rabat on Tuesday, December 23, 2025.

Théo Bongonda scored the only goal in the 16th minute, volleying home after a defensive mix-up allowed a long ball to bounce, with an assist credited to Arthur Masuaku in some reports.

DR Congo thought they had doubled the lead early in the second half when Cédric Bakambu headed in, but a lengthy VAR check ruled it offside.

Benin dominated possession and created numerous chances but were let down by poor finishing, with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi making crucial saves, including a late stop from Aiyegun Tosin.

Coach Sébastien Desabre‘s side, semi-finalists in 2023, showed defensive resilience to claim three points in a tricky group also featuring Senegal and Botswana.

Benin, under Gernot Rohr, remain winless in open play at AFCON (D5 L9 across previous appearances) but impressed with their organization.

Next for DR Congo: Senegal. Benin face Botswana.

A gritty start for the Leopards in Morocco.