AFCON 2025: DR Congo vs Benin preview, prediction, team news, and head-to-head

DR Congo, who finished fourth in the 2023 edition, enter this tournament as one of the dark horses for the title, while Benin return to the continental stage after missing out on the previous finals.

DR Congo arrive in Morocco in exceptional form under Sebastien Desabre, having lost just once in 2025. Their preparations were bolstered by a convincing 2-0 friendly win over Zambia, with Arthur Masuaku and Rocky Bushiri both on the scoresheet.

The Leopards’ physical, high-pressing system has made them difficult to break down, keeping four clean sheets in their last five outings.

In contrast, Benin have struggled for consistency. The Cheetahs recently suffered a heavy 3-0 defeat to Burkina Faso, highlighting defensive vulnerabilities that Gernot Rohr must address.

Having failed to win any of their 14 previous AFCON matches in open play (D5, L9), Benin will likely adopt a cautious, pragmatic approach to frustrate their more illustrious opponents.

The two sides most recently met during the 2022 World Cup qualifiers. DR Congo remained unbeaten across both fixtures, securing a 2-0 home victory and a 1-1 draw away from home.

The Leopards are without Yoane Wissa and Joris Kayembe due to injury. However, the squad is significantly strengthened by the inclusion of Aaron Wan-Bissaka and the veteran leadership of Cedric Bakambu.

Meanwhile, Benin face a crisis in their opener, with five key players ruled out. Steve Mounie is sidelined with an injury, while Andreas Hountondji, Junior Olaitan, Mohamed Tijani, and Marcel Dandjinou are all unavailable due to suspension.

DR Congo (4-3-3): Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Masuaku; Moutoussamy, Mukau, Sadiki; Elia, Bakambu, Banza.

Benin (4-2-3-1): Allagbe; Kiki, Verdon, Moumini, Chadli; Dokou, Imourane; Dossou, Ahlinvi, Aiyegun; Tosin.

DR Congo head into this game on a five game winning streak, and will have too much for a depleted Benin side.

• DR Congo to win

• Under 2.5 total goals