Senegal and DR Congo meet in a decisive AFCON 2025 Group D encounter on Saturday at the Grand Stade de Tanger, with both sides aiming to build momentum from opening-day victories. The Lions of Teranga began their campaign in ruthless fashion, sweeping aside Botswana 3-0, a performance that underlined why they are considered one of the tournament favourites.
That result placed Senegal top of the group on goal difference and highlighted their attacking depth. Nicolas Jackson scored twice, while Sadio Mané was heavily involved throughout. Their only recent setback came in a friendly loss to Brazil, which ended a long unbeaten run, a match SoftFootball covered in detail.
DR Congo also started positively, edging Benin 1-0 thanks to a first-half strike from Théo Bongonda. That narrow win reflected their growing defensive discipline under Sébastien Desabre, with SoftFootball noting their confidence heading into Group D.
Historically, Senegal have dominated this fixture, remaining unbeaten in the last eight meetings. Their most recent clash ended in a dramatic 3-2 World Cup qualifying comeback win after trailing 2-0 in Kinshasa, a reminder of their resilience under pressure.
Team News
Senegal welcome back left-back El Hadji Malick Diouf from suspension, boosting their defensive options. The only confirmed absentee is winger Assane Diao due to a thigh injury. The DR Congo report no fresh injury concerns, although Axel Tuanzebe remains unavailable. Both squads are otherwise close to full strength.
Possible Lineups
Senegal (4-3-3): Mendy; Diatta, Koulibaly, Niakhate, Diouf; I. Gueye, P. Gueye, Ndiaye; Mane, I. Sarr, Jackson.
DR Congo (4-3-3): Mpasi-Nzau; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Masuaku; Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Kayembe; Bongonda, Mbuku, Bakambu.
CAF Online shared a video on their official X account highlighting Nicolas Jackson’s relaxed celebration after scoring a brace for Senegal.
Watch the video below:
SoftFootball’s Prediction
With both teams boasting strong defensive records, a tight contest is expected. However, Senegal’s attacking depth and recent dominance in this fixture give them the edge. SoftFootball predicts a narrow Senegal victory, likely settled by moments of quality from Mané or Jackson, which would all but secure their place in the knockout stages.
Prediction: Senegal 1-0 DR Congo.
