Senegal and DR Congo Advance to Round of 16 with Convincing Wins
Benin Republic Advance as one of the four best third placed teams
Senegal and the Democratic Republic of the Congo have both secured qualification to the Round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations following comfortable victories in their final Group D matches on Tuesday, December 30.
Senegal’s Teranga Lions defeated Benin 3-0 in Tanger to finish top of the group, despite captain Kalidou Koulibaly being sent off during the match. Goals from Diarra and Mbaye in the second half ensured Senegal’s progression, with Ndiaye adding a late penalty to seal the win.
In the group’s other fixture, DR Congo secured a 3–0 victory over Botswana, with Gaël Kakuta scoring twice to lead his side into the knockout stage. Balikwisha also scored for DR Congo, while Botswana were unable to respond despite several attempts.
Senegal will go into the Round of 16 as group winners, while DR Congo join them from second place in Group D, setting up exciting matchups in the knockout stage of the tournament.
Benin also qualified from Group D. Gernot Rohr’s side qualified as one of the best third placed teams.
