Senegal surrendered their first points of the Africa Cup of Nations after being held to a 1-1 draw by DR Congo in a tightly contested clash between the leaders of Group D.

The breakthrough came from Cedric Bakambu, who put DR Congo ahead and briefly threatened to shake up the group dynamics. Senegal, however, responded through their talisman. In the 69th minute, Sadio Mané delivered once again, finishing clinically to restore parity and keep his side in control of their destiny.

The goal carried historic significance. It was Mané’s 10th strike at the Africa Cup of Nations, moving him into elite company. Only Didier Drogba (11) and Samuel Eto’o (14) have scored more goals in the history of the tournament — a testament to Mané’s enduring impact on the continental stage.

Despite pushing for a winner late on, Senegal were unable to break down a resilient Congolese side and had to settle for a share of the spoils.

Looking ahead to the final round of group matches, Senegal will face Benin and know that even a draw will be enough to secure qualification for the knockout stages. DR Congo, meanwhile, will conclude their group campaign against Botswana, the tournament’s outsiders.

2025 Africa Cup of Nations

Senegal - DR Congo 1:1 (0:0)
Goals: Bakambu, 61 (0:1); Mane Sa., 69 (1:1)

Senegal: Mendy Ed.; Koulibaly K.; Jakobs I.; Niakhaté; Gueye P.A. (Camara L., 81); Gueye I.; Mane Sa.; Sarr Is. (Mbaye, 62); Jackson N. (Diallo H., 81); Ndiaye Il. (Sabaly C., 89); Diatta
Substitution: Mbaye (from 62); Camara L. (from 81); Diallo H. (from 81); Sabaly C. (from 89)
Bench: Diouf Y.; Diaw M.; Sarr; Seck A.; Mendy An.; Ciss P.; Diarra H.; Sarr P.; Diouf Mal.; Dia B.; Ndiaye
Yellow Cards: Gueye P.A. 28

DR Congo: Mpasi; Tuanzebe; Mbemba; Masuaku (Kayembe, 73); Mukau (Kayembe E., 73); Wan-Bissaka; Moutoussamy; Sadiki; Bongonda (Mbuku, 66); Elia (Balikwisha M-A., 87); Bakambu (Mayele, 66)
Substitution: Mbuku (from 66); Mayele (from 66); Kayembe E. (from 73); Kayembe (from 73); Balikwisha M-A. (from 87)
Bench: Fayulu; Epolo; Kapuadi; Batubinsika; Bushiri; Kalulu; Kakuta; Pickel; Cipenga Brian; Essende