Théo Bongonda’s 16th-minute goal earned DR Congo a hard-fought 1-0 win over Benin in their AFCON 2025 Group D opener at Al Madina Stadium.
The Leopards dominated the early stages, with Bongonda capitalizing on a defensive error to slot home the decisive goal.
While Cédric Bakambu nearly doubled the lead, Benin’s “Cheetahs” remained resilient despite missing five suspended starters.
Benin pressured late in the second half, but a disciplined Congolese defense held firm to secure the clean sheet and all three points.
Théo Bongonda who was named Man of the Match said: “No team wins easily in this AFCON… the most important thing is the three points.”
Benin Head Coach, Gernot Rohr said: “My team made me proud. We didn’t deserve to lose, but we will be stronger with our suspended players back for Botswana.”
