Senegal’s AFCON opener against DR Congo was tipped to be a comfortable outing, but the Leopards had other ideas, pushing the Lions of Teranga all the way. Cédric Bakambu broke the deadlock for DR Congo in the 61st minute, before Sadio Mané responded seven minutes later to restore parity. With neither side able to find a winner, the match ended in a hard-fought 1–1 draw. Here are five key takeaways from Senegal and DR Congo's 1-1 draw.
Senegal entered their AFCON campaign as clear favourites and, ahead of kickoff, were widely expected to secure a comfortable victory over DR Congo. However, the match unfolded quite differently.
Against the run of expectations, the Leopards struck first when Cédric Bakambu fired a left-footed shot past Senegal’s goalkeeper to open the scoring.
Whilst match stats show that Senegal had nearly 30% more possession than DR Congo, the game was largely defined by intensity, duels, and a tussle. It lacked the creativity that Senegal players typically demonstrate. In particular, both nations had 12 equal Aerial duels won.
It sent the clear message that both nations were not willing to give in to the other, and DR Congo proved themselves today.
Instantly, DR Congo’s performance sent the clear message that things may not seem as they are. DR Congo brought the heat. They organised defensively and matched Senegal physically and tactically. Frustrating the once reigning champions of Africa, DR Congo are no longer participants of this tournament but here to stay and earn points. This match has undoubtedly given DR Congo a confidence boost that will serve them throughout their AFCON campaign.
Cedric Bakambu, DR Congo's striker known for his impact on the opposing's defence, he made the clinical finish for the nations goal against Senegal. His awareness and fluidity helped him find the ball and use his left foot to shoot into Senegal's net from close range.
A player like him boosts the nations credibility and status in the AFCON tournament. It immediately put Senegal into work as they continued to prey on the opposing backline.
For Senegal, this game shows that reputation alone can not keep a nation far in this tournament. Rather, surprises and plot twists can define a game and change the a narrative. DR Congo once seen as participants of the game have now shown football fans that they belong at an international tournament such as AFCON 2025.
Senegal need to regroup and evaluate how they will play, what players to use up front and substitutions to make impact. DR Congo on the other hand have earned themselves a confidence boost that can serve them. As both nations yield the same points, only one will have to come out on top.
