Tue Dec 30 22:19:26 UTC 2025: Senegal Secures Top Spot in AFCON Group D, Sets Up Clash with Group E Third-Place Finisher

Tangier, Morocco – Senegal dominated Benin with a decisive 3-0 victory on Tuesday, clinching the top spot in Group D of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025. Meanwhile, the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) also secured a 3-0 win against Botswana, landing them in second place and setting up a high-stakes showdown against Algeria in the Round of 16.

Senegal’s goals came from Abdoulaye Seck, Habib Diallo, and a late penalty from Cherif Ndiaye. Despite a red card for captain Kalidou Koulibaly in the second half, the Lions of Teranga maintained their lead and secured their place as group winners.

The DRC’s victory over Botswana, with goals from Nathanael Mbuku and Gael Kakuta (who scored twice), was not enough to surpass Senegal on goal difference. As a result, they face a tougher path in the knockout stage, playing Algeria.

With this result, Senegal will remain in Tangier to face a third-place finisher from Group E – either Burkina Faso or Sudan – on Saturday.

Benin, despite their loss, will advance as one of the best third-placed teams and will face Egypt.

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