D.R. Congo are set to host the Cheetahs of Benin at the Al Barid Stadium as Group-D opener.
Match-day three of the 2025 African Cup of Nations is scheduled to embrace two AFCON regular participants in recent times – the much anticipation stems from the outstanding performances both sides have chalked in their most recent games.
Now, Two-time AFCON champions, the Leopards of Congo are presented with another opportunity to stump their authority in making history once in this tournament. D.R. Congo’s last AFCON saw progress to the semi-finals of the campaign.
In highlighting the Leopards exceptional performances lately, they are currently in a five-game winning streak as they seized the chance to humiliate some African power houses in the likes of Nigeria and Cameroon in order to keep the FIFA World Cup qualification alive.
Further, D.R Congo have netted seven goals in all competition in their last five games which then points to the effectiveness of their attacking third – giving credits to Elia, Bakambu and Mbuku who have tormented every opposition they have come across.
On the flip side, Benin are heading into this tournament with a slight dip in form as they have lost two, conceded seven goals and have failed to find the back of the net – having these stats ahead of an opening game against a free scoring side like D.R Congo clear hints the possibility of goals being shipped in.
Statistics have also indicated that, the “two big cats” have encountered each other in two games – the Leopards of D.R Congo have out-done the Cheetahs of Benin, wining one and splitting up points with them in the other game. Plus, both sides have never experienced each other in the African Cup of Nations competition.
Predictions For the Game
Taking a clue from D.R Congo’s performance in the last AFCON, they will certainly be eyeing a much better outing hence, making a statement with their opening game is a must.
My predictions are, a double chance for D.R Congo and both teams are definitely going to find the back of the net in this game.
