The Africa Cup of Nations 2025 continues to deliver high-stakes encounters, and one of the most anticipated fixtures in the group stage brings together DR Congo and Benin in a compelling showdown. Both teams step onto the pitch with ambition, history, and the urgent need to make a strong first impression.

📅 Match Date and Kick-off Time – DR Congo vs Benin (AFCON 2025)

The match between DR Congo and Benin will take place on Tuesday, the 23rd, at the iconic El Barid Stadium, also known as Stade de la Ville, located in Rabat, Morocco.

As the opening round of Group D in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, this encounter could shape the early dynamics of the group and set the tone for both sides.

⚔️ First-Ever AFCON Meeting Between DR Congo and Benin

Interestingly, this match carries a unique historical edge. It marks the first direct meeting between DR Congo and Benin in the history of AFCON finals. That fact alone adds an extra layer of intensity, as neither team holds a psychological advantage from past tournaments.

Will experience prevail, or will unpredictability steal the spotlight?

🐆 DR Congo’s Ambitions and Tactical Strengths

Nicknamed The Leopards, DR Congo enter the tournament with high expectations. After struggling in early matches during the last two AFCON editions, the team is determined to break the curse of slow starts and begin this campaign with authority.

With two continental titles (1968 and 1974) in their trophy cabinet and recent momentum highlighted by reaching the 2026 World Cup qualification playoffs, DR Congo appear more balanced and confident than ever.

Head coach Sébastien Desabre is expected to rely on a solid defensive structure combined with quick attacking transitions. The objective is clear: score early, control the rhythm, and avoid the frustrating draw scenarios that haunted the team in the previous edition.

🐿️ Benin’s Challenge and Hope for Another Surprise

On the other side, Benin approach the match eager to restore confidence following disappointment in the World Cup qualifiers. Known as The Squirrels, they aim to reignite memories of their historic 2019 AFCON run, where they reached the quarter-finals for the first time.

Veteran German coach Gernot Rohr is fully aware of the challenge ahead. Still, he is betting on disciplined defending, physical resilience, and fast counter-attacks. Much of Benin’s hopes rest on the experience and finishing ability of striker Steve Mounié, who could be decisive in moments of transition.

A positive result here would significantly boost Benin’s chances of fighting for one of the two qualification spots from the group.

📺 TV Channels Broadcasting DR Congo vs Benin – AFCON 2025

Fans around the world can follow the match live through the official broadcasters of the Africa Cup of Nations 2025, including:

As the AFCON 2025 group stage unfolds, DR Congo vs Benin stands out as more than just a battle for three points. It is a test of ambition versus resilience, experience versus belief. Whether the Leopards assert their dominance or the Squirrels pull off another memorable surprise, one thing is certain: this match promises intensity, drama, and a defining start to the tournament.

Football fans should not miss it. ⚽🔥