CAN 2025: How does DR Congo stack up against its Group D rivals?

CAN 2025: How does DR Congo stack up against its Group D rivals?

How does DR Congo fare against its Group D opponents in CAN 2025?

DR Congo/@Radio Okapi

DR Congo will be looking to break their long-standing curse in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) as the 35th edition kicks off in Morocco on December 21.

The “Leopards” haven’t lifted the trophy since their triumph back in 1974.

Drawn into Group D, the Congolese side will face off against Senegal, Benin, and Botswana.

Here’s a look at DR Congo’s head-to-head record against their group stage opponents.

DR Congo’s record against Senegal

The Leopards have suffered 6 defeats to the Lions, alongside 2 draws and 2 Congolese victories.

– January 16, 1968, Africa Cup of Nations: Senegal 1–2 DR Congo

– January 30, 1969, Friendly: Senegal 0–4 DR Congo

– February 4, 2002, Africa Cup of Nations: Senegal 2–0 DR Congo

– January 14, 2006, Friendly: Senegal 0–0 DR Congo

– August 12, 2009, Friendly: Senegal 2–1 DR Congo

– September 5, 2010, Africa Cup of Nations: Senegal 4–2 DR Congo

– September 3, 2011, Africa Cup of Nations: Senegal 2–0 DR Congo

– January 22, 2023, CHAN: Senegal 3–0 DR Congo

– June 6, 2024, World Cup: Senegal 1–1 DR Congo

– September 9, 2025, World Cup: Senegal 3–2 DR Congo

DR Congo’s record against Benin

These two sides have met twice before, with DR Congo claiming one win and the other match ending in a draw.

– September 6, 2021, World Cup: DR Congo 1–1 Benin

– November 14, 2021, World Cup: DR Congo 2–0 Benin

DR Congo’s record against Botswana

The Congolese have won two out of five encounters with Botswana, with two draws and just one defeat.

– October 13, 2002, Africa Cup of Nations: DR Congo 2–0 Botswana

– July 5, 2003, Africa Cup of Nations: DR Congo 0–0 Botswana

– July 1, 2005, Friendly: DR Congo 0–0 Botswana

– June 22, 2016, COSAFA Cup: DR Congo 0–0 Botswana

– June 5, 2017, Friendly: DR Congo 2–0 Botswana