AFCON 2025 Day 9 Wrap: Senegal, DR Congo, Nigeria Confirm Last 16, Tanzania Wait

The group stage of the TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 concluded in dramatic fashion on Tuesday, with heavyweights underlining their credentials and several teams sealing their knockout stage spots.

Senegal showcased their championship pedigree, DR Congo delivered a statement win, Nigeria maintained their perfect record, while Tunisia and Tanzania battled to a crucial draw.

Here’s how the day unfolded:

Senegal 3–0 Benin

Senegal reaffirmed their title ambitions with a commanding 3–0 win over Benin in Tangiers, sealing top spot in Group D.

The Lions of Teranga struck first in the 38th minute when Abdoulaye Seck rose highest to head home Krépin Diatta’s pinpoint delivery. Benin responded after the break with efforts from Aiyegun Tosin and Junior Olaïtan, but Édouard Mendy stood firm.

Senegal doubled their lead on 62 minutes through Habib Diallo, who finished calmly after a clever pass from Sadio Mané. The game took a twist when captain Kalidou Koulibaly saw red following a VAR review in the 71st minute, but Senegal held their nerve. Deep into stoppage time, Cherif Ndiaye converted a penalty to seal the result after Ibrahim Mbaye was fouled.

Senegal finish top of Group D, while Benin advance as one of the best third-placed teams. DR Congo secured second place after beating Botswana.

Man of the Match – Abdoulaye Seck:
“It was a team effort. Benin fought hard, but we stayed focused and got the job done despite going down to ten men.”

Benin coach Gerrit Rohr:
“Senegal’s experience showed. We were cautious to avoid suspensions, but we’ll correct mistakes before the knockout stage.”

Senegal coach Pape Thiaw:
“Credit to the players. We achieved our goal of topping the group. Now we must improve because the Round of 16 leaves no room for error.”

DR Congo 3–0 Botswana

Gael Kakuta inspired DR Congo to a 3–0 victory over Botswana in Rabat, scoring twice and assisting once to set up a Round of 16 clash with Algeria.

Kakuta’s audacious backheel set up Nathaniel Mbuku for the opener on 31 minutes. He then converted a penalty before halftime and added a second after the break from Theo Bongonda’s cross. Botswana, already eliminated, offered little resistance as DR Congo managed the game professionally.

Man of the Match – Gael Kakuta:
“I wasn’t even supposed to start, but this shows our collective strength. We stayed focused despite changes.”

Botswana coach Morena Ramoreboli:
“We’re out, but I’m proud of my players’ attitude. They fought until the end.”

Tanzania 1–1 Tunisia

Tunisia secured second place in Group C after a 1–1 draw with Tanzania in Rabat. Ismael Gharbi put Tunisia ahead from the spot in the 42nd minute after a VAR-reviewed foul on Hazem Mastouri. Feisal Salum equalized for Tanzania with a curling strike in the 54th minute.

Tunisia qualify for the Round of 16, while Tanzania remain hopeful as one of the best third-placed teams.

Tunisia coach Sami Trabelsi:
“Qualification was key. We must raise our level for the knockout stage.”

Tanzania coach Miguel Gamondi:
“I’m proud of the team. This result shows Tanzania’s potential and will inspire future generations.”

Nigeria 3–1 Uganda

Nigeria topped Group C with a 3–1 win over Uganda in Fès. Paul Onuachu opened the scoring on 28 minutes before Uganda’s hopes faded when Salim Magoola saw red early in the second half. Raphael Onyedika struck twice in quick succession to make it 3–0, while Rogers Mato netted a consolation for Uganda.

Nigeria finish with three wins from three, while Uganda bow out.

Man of the Match – Raphael Onyedika:
“I’ve worked hard for this moment. It’s about staying ready and performing when called upon.”