Senegal and the Democratic Republic of Congo will both have to wait to confirm their places in the Africa Cup of Nations knockout stage after battling to a 1–1 draw in a high-quality Group D encounter at the Grand Stade de Tanger
With qualification on the line, the clash carried the feel of a knockout tie, and Senegal – unbeaten in their previous eight meetings with DR Congo – started on the front foot.
The Teranga Lions nearly struck inside the opening minute when Nicolas Jackson broke through and teed up Ismaïla Sarr, whose effort sailed over the bar. Jackson remained a constant threat, flashing a shot into the side netting and later dragging a clear chance wide as Senegal dominated the first half.
DR Congo survived sustained pressure, with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi also called into action to deny Pape Gueye late in the half, while a Senegal goal was ruled out after a goalmouth scramble. Despite the Lions’ control, the contest went into the break scoreless.
The complexion of the game shifted after the restart as DR Congo grew into the match. Cédric Bakambu was denied by a timely Kalidou Koulibaly intervention before Edouard Mendy was finally tested by Noah Sadiki’s long-range effort.
The breakthrough arrived just after the hour mark when Theo Bongonda’s shot was blocked by Mendy, allowing Bakambu to react quickest and tap in from close range to put the Leopards ahead.
Senegal responded immediately, raising the tempo and pressing for an equaliser. Their persistence paid off when Sadio Mané displayed his trademark calm inside the box, guiding a precise finish into the corner after a deflection fell kindly into his path.
The closing stages saw Senegal push for a winner, but DR Congo held their shape and defended resolutely to protect the point. The draw leaves both sides well placed but still with work to do in Group D.
Senegal will next face Benin Republic, while DR Congo turn their focus to Botswana on December 30 as both African heavyweights continue their push to finish top of the group.
