Senegal and DR Congo Settle for a Cautious Draw in CAN 2025 Clash
So, let’s talk about what happened in Tanger, because this was one of those matches everyone had circled on the calendar. Senegal versus DR Congo, second matchday of Group D at the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, and on paper, it looked like a heavyweight showdown. In the end, it finished 1-1, a result that felt a bit restrained but made sense for both sides.
From the opening whistle, the atmosphere was electric at the Ibn Batouta Stadium. Senegal, one of the tournament favorites, lined up with their familiar attacking weapons, while DR Congo arrived with confidence, having looked sharp in recent months. But despite the big names and the packed stands, the first half never truly caught fire. It almost felt like both teams were testing each other, cautious not to make the first big mistake.
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There were a few moments, of course. A goal by Aaron Wan-Bissaka for DR Congo was ruled out for offside early on, and Senegal had a couple of half-chances through Nicolas Jackson and Pape Gueye. Still, clear-cut opportunities were limited, and by halftime, the scoreline stayed locked at 0-0, leaving many expecting more after the break.
Things finally opened up in the second half, and it was DR Congo who struck first. After a well-worked collective move, Cédric Bakambu pounced like a true poacher in the box and finished calmly, beating Edouard Mendy to make it 1-0 around the hour mark. At that point, Senegal were forced to react, and the pressure slowly began to build.
The turning point came with the introduction of young winger Ibrahim Mbaye. Even at just 17, his impact was immediately felt. His direct running caused real problems for the Congolese defense, and during one such move, he broke through while Arthur Masuaku pulled up injured. Mbaye’s initial effort was saved, but the rebound fell perfectly to Sadio Mané, who made no mistake. That goal, his 51st for Senegal, brought the Lions of Teranga level at 1-1.
For a brief spell, the match looked ready to explode into life. Senegal pushed, DR Congo defended deep, and chances seemed possible at either end. But as the minutes ticked away, the intensity dropped. It was almost as if both teams quietly accepted the draw, knowing it suited them ahead of the final group match.
In the end, the 1-1 result leaves Senegal and DR Congo tied on four points, both in strong positions to qualify. Everything will now be decided on the last matchday, with Senegal facing Benin and DR Congo taking on Botswana. It wasn’t a classic, but in tournament football, sometimes control and patience matter just as much as flair.
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