As the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) action intensifies in Morocco as seen in our previews, the Leopards of Congo DR prepare to launch their campaign against the Cheetahs of Benin at the Al-Barid Stadium in Rabat. Congo DR enters this tournament with massive expectations following their impressive run to the semi-finals in the previous edition. Under Sébastien Desabre, the Leopards have cultivated a robust tactical identity, making them a “dark horse” for the title and a high-interest target for bettors looking for a balanced side with clinical finishing.
Benin, making their return to the continental stage after missing the previous tournament, faces a daunting opening task. Coached by the experienced Gernot Rohr, the Cheetahs have historically been tough to break down, famously reaching the quarter-finals in 2019 without winning a game in normal time. However, with several key absences and a recent dip in form, this match preview highlights a significant gap in momentum. Punters can find the most competitive markets for this Group D opener at Betano.
Congo DR vs Benin Betting Preview
The Leopards arrive in Rabat in exceptional form, having lost just once throughout 2025. Their preparation was underscored by a convincing 2-0 friendly win over Zambia, showcasing the physical, high-pressing system that Desabre has perfected. For those following a Congo DR vs Benin betting preview, the inclusion of elite talent like Aaron Wan-Bissaka and the veteran leadership of Cédric Bakambu makes the Leopards heavy favorites to dictate the tempo of this match from the first whistle.
For Benin, the strategy will revolve around structure and resilience. Rohr’s teams typically prioritize defensive solidity, often retreating into a compact block to exploit transitional moments.6 However, defensive vulnerabilities were exposed in their recent 3-0 loss to Burkina Faso, a concern that must be addressed before facing the Leopards’ potent attack.
Team Recent Form
Congo DR: W W W W W
Benin: W W L L L
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Key Stats
- Defensive Wall: Congo DR has kept four clean sheets in their last five competitive outings in 2025.
- AFCON Drought: Benin has failed to win any of their 14 previous AFCON matches in open play (D5, L9).
- Head-to-Head Edge: The Leopards remained unbeaten against Benin in their most recent World Cup qualifying cycle (1 Win, 1 Draw).
Correct Score Prediction
2-0 to Congo DR. The Leopards are currently operating at a much higher tactical level than their opponents. With a midfield anchored by Samuel Moutoussamy and the pace of Meschack Elia out wide, Congo DR has the tools to break down Benin’s compact system. Given Benin’s current “personnel crisis” involving missing starters, the Leopards should secure a comfortable two-goal victory. You can place your score bets at Betano.
Congo DR vs Benin H2H
- Recent Meeting: Congo DR won the last competitive meeting 2-0 in November 2021.
- Goal History: In their last two encounters, Congo DR has scored 3 goals while Benin has managed only 1.
- Unbeaten Record: Congo DR has never lost a competitive senior international match against Benin.
- Clean Sheet Trend: The Leopards have shut out Benin in their only previous “home” designated fixture.
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Pre-game Odds
- Congo DR Win: 1.68
- Draw: 3.40
- Benin Win: 5.50
Stay updated with the latest odds at Betano.
Team News Congo DR
Congo DR will be without the services of Yoane Wissa and Joris Kayembe due to injury. Additionally, youngster Mario Stroeykens was forced to withdraw from the squad recently with a knee injury. To bolster the attack, the Leopards have recalled veteran Gaël Kakuta. The squad is otherwise at full strength, with Aaron Wan-Bissaka expected to make his tournament debut.
Team News Benin
The Cheetahs are facing a massive selection crisis for their opener. Steve Mounié is a major doubt due to injury, while four key players—Andreas Hountondji, Junior Olaitan, Mohamed Tijani, and Marcel Dandjinou—are reportedly unavailable due to suspension issues carried over. This leaves Gernot Rohr with a very thin squad for this crucial opener.
Predicted Line-ups
Congo DR (4-3-3): Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Masuaku; Moutoussamy, Mukau, Sadiki; Elia, Bakambu, Banza.16
Benin (4-2-3-1): Allagbe; Kiki, Verdon, Moumini, Chadli; Dokou, Imourane; Dossou, Ahlinvi, Aiyegun; Tosin.
Congo DR vs Benin Betting Tips
- Tip 1 – Result: Congo DR Win
- Tip 2 – Over/Under 2.5 goals: Under 2.5 goals
- Tip 3 – Both team to score: No
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