Sadio Mane, AFCON 2025 (X/caf_online_FR)
Sadio Mane’s equaliser rescued defending champions Senegal, securing a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of Congo in a high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations clash on Saturday.
Cedric Bakambu had put the Leopards ahead shortly after the hour mark in Tangiers, but Mane, representing Al Nassr, responded swiftly to ensure Senegal remain top of Group D heading into the final round of matches.
Both teams now sit on four points, but Senegal lead on goal difference and will face Benin in their last group game on Tuesday. Benin, meanwhile, claimed three points after a 1-0 victory over Botswana in Rabat, leaving the Zebras bottom of the group without a goal or a point.
DR Congo, coached by Sebastien Desabre, were eager for revenge following a dramatic World Cup qualifying clash in September, when Senegal overcame a 2-0 deficit to win 3-2 in Kinshasa. That win secured Senegal’s top spot in their qualifying group for next year’s North American World Cup. DR Congo, finishing second in that group, still have a chance to reach the World Cup via a one-off playoff against New Caledonia or Jamaica in Mexico next March.
Senegal, fresh from a 3-0 win over Botswana, dominated possession and created the clearer chances in Tangiers, positioning themselves as one of Morocco’s biggest challengers for the title on home soil.
However, DR Congo struck first in the 61st minute. Theo Bongonda, scorer of their opening win against Benin, delivered a shot that was parried by Senegal goalkeeper Edouard Mendy. Bakambu, of Real Betis, reacted quickly to convert the rebound.
Senegal’s lead lasted only eight minutes. The leveller came through a brilliant run by 17-year-old substitute Ibrahim Mbaye. Born in France, Mbaye recently committed his international future to Senegal, qualifying through his parentage. He replaced Ismaila Sarr shortly after Bakambu’s goal and raced down the right wing, leaving Arthur Masuaku behind, who appeared to injure himself while challenging. Mbaye’s initial shot was blocked by goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, but Mane was perfectly positioned to finish and score.
The strike marked Mane’s 10th AFCON goal as he competes in his sixth tournament, reinforcing his status as one of the continent’s most prolific forwards.
