DR Congo vs Benin AFCON 2025 Live: Match Preview, Predictions, Streaming, and Updates
The Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 ignites Group D action today as DR Congo (Leopards) clash with Benin (Cheetahs) on December 23, 2025, at the Al Barid Stadium in Rabat, Morocco.
Fans across the continent are buzzing and searching for DR Congo vs Benin AFCON 2025 live, DR Congo Benin live score, AFCON today DR Congo vs Benin highlights, and Leopards vs Cheetahs AFCON 2025 as both sides begin their campaign in this crucial group stage encounter.
Match Preview
DR Congo, fresh from their impressive semi-final finish at AFCON 2023, enter the 2025 edition as one of Africa’s dark horses for the title. Boasting strength in depth and experience across Europe’s top leagues, the Leopards are strong favorites to top their group.
Benin, on the other hand, return to the AFCON stage seeking their first-ever group stage win in regulation time. They’ll need discipline, creativity, and resilience to stand up to a powerful Congolese side.
Match Details and How to Watch Live
📅 Date: Tuesday, December 23, 2025
🏟️ Venue: Al Barid Stadium, Rabat, Morocco
⏰ Kick-off: 12:30 GMT
📺 Broadcast:
beIN Sports (US / International)
SuperSport (Africa)
CAF TV / YouTube (selected regions)
💻 Live Streaming:
FuboTV
beIN Sports Connect
Official CAF digital channels
Sofascore / Flashscore for live scores and minute-by-minute coverage
Team News and Predicted Lineups
🇨🇩 DR Congo (Leopards)
Coach: Sébastien Desabre
The Leopards boast a talented and balanced squad featuring stars from top European clubs. With leadership from Chancel Mbemba and goal threat Cédric Bakambu, DR Congo are expected to dominate.
Predicted DR Congo Lineup (4-3-3):
Lionel Mpasi; Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe, Arthur Masuaku; Noah Sadiki, Edo Kayembe, Gaël Kakuta; Meschack Elia, William Balikwisha, Cédric Bakambu.
🇧🇯 Benin (Cheetahs)
Coach: Gernot Rohr
Benin face selection challenges due to injuries and suspensions, with key striker Steve Mounié ruled out. They’ll rely on quick transitions and set pieces to trouble the Leopards’ defense.
Predicted Benin Lineup (4-2-3-1):
Saturnin Allagbé; David Kiki, Olivier Verdon, Rachid Moumini, Yohan Roche; Dokou Dodo, Hassane Imourane; Jodel Dossou, Matteo Ahlinvi, Aiyegun Tosin; Junior Olaitan (or substitute).
Head-to-Head and Key Stats
Recent Meetings: DR Congo are unbeaten against Benin in recent clashes — a 2–0 win and 1–1 draw during the 2022 World Cup qualifiers.
DR Congo: Semi-finalists in AFCON 2023, currently on a five-game winning streak across all competitions.
Benin: Quarter-finalists in AFCON 2019 (best-ever finish); still seeking their first AFCON group-stage victory in normal time.
📊 Stat Fact: DR Congo have scored at least twice in each of their last five matches, while Benin have conceded in four of their previous six.
Predictions
Experts predict a comfortable win for DR Congo, likely 2–0 or 3–1, given their superior squad quality and form.
Players to Watch:
Cédric Bakambu (DRC): The experienced striker remains lethal in front of goal.
Gaël Kakuta (DRC): The creative force linking midfield and attack.
Jodel Dossou (Benin): Known for pace and unpredictability on the wings.
Expect DR Congo to control possession and create multiple chances, while Benin will aim to stay compact and counterattack quickly.
Why This Match Matters in Group D
Group D also includes Senegal and Botswana, making every point vital in the race for the Round of 16.
A win for DR Congo would put them neck-and-neck with Senegal at the top.
Benin will aim for at least a draw to boost their hopes of qualifying as one of the best third-placed teams.
This clash could shape the destiny of Group D early on.
Stay Updated: Live Scores and Highlights
Stay tuned for:
DR Congo vs Benin live updates
Full-time highlights and match reports
Updated Group D standings
📺 Watch official AFCON 2025 DR Congo vs Benin highlights on CAF TV, YouTube, or SuperSport after the match.