Théo Bongonda’s solitary strike proved sufficient as DR Congo edged past a resilient Benin side in a tight Group D encounter that never quite caught fire in Marrakech on Tuesday evening.
The Leopards dominated possession and territory throughout, creating the better chances and generally looking the more likely victors. Yet Benin’s stubborn defensive organisation ensured the contest remained delicately poised until Bongonda’s intervention settled matters.
The match began cautiously, both teams seemingly wary of making early mistakes that could prove costly. DR Congo gradually assumed control, their technical quality and physical presence allowing them to dictate tempo and territory. Benin sat deep, absorbing pressure and looking to counter-attack when opportunities arose.
Bongonda’s goal arrived through a moment of individual quality in the 16th minute. Capitalising on a defensive error, the forward demonstrated the clinical finishing that has made him a valuable asset for his country. His strike was well-taken, offering Benin goalkeeper Marcel Dandjinou no chance of preventing the breakthrough.
The match’s defining moment arrived around the hour mark when controversy erupted. Chancel Mbemba appeared to handle the ball inside his own penalty area, prompting furious appeals from Benin players. The referee signalled for a VAR review, but upon reaching the monitor, discovered the system had malfunctioned. For approximately 15 minutes, VAR was completely unavailable due to technical failure.
With no ability to review the incident, the referee had no choice but to wave play on, denying what Benin felt was a clear penalty. The decision left Benin players visibly frustrated and sparked heated protests on the pitch. Manager Gernot Rohr was furious after the match, launching a scathing attack on CAF’s officiating standards.
“I am very angry about the quality of refereeing at this AFCON,” Rohr fumed post-match. The former Nigeria manager questioned both the competence and fairness of tournament officials, adding that a member of his technical staff had been denied access to an empty stadium in Tangier whilst attempting to scout another match.
DR Congo thought they had doubled their lead moments after the restart when Cédric Bakambu headed home, but this time VAR was operational again and correctly ruled the goal out for infringement. The technical failure during the penalty incident will likely dominate discussions, with Benin reportedly filing an official petition to CAF over the controversy.
Benin pushed for an equaliser in the closing stages, introducing attacking substitutes and committing more players forward. The Squirrels created half-chances but lacked the cutting edge required to truly test Mpasi. DR Congo’s experience showed as they navigated the final minutes without serious alarm.
For DR Congo, the three points represent a satisfactory if unspectacular start to their campaign. Manager Sébastien Desabre will appreciate the importance of winning opening fixtures, regardless of the performance quality. Tournament football demands results above aesthetics, and his side delivered what was required.
The victory maintains DR Congo’s impressive recent tournament record. The Leopards finished third at the 2023 edition, their best performance since winning the competition in 1968 and 1974. That bronze medal represented vindication for Desabre, who has transformed the team’s fortunes since taking charge.
DR Congo possess quality throughout their squad. Players like Chancel Mbemba, Yoane Wissa and Cédric Bakambu bring experience from Europe’s top leagues, whilst emerging talents provide energy and dynamism. The blend of youth and experience creates a balanced squad capable of competing with anyone.
Bongonda’s goal was his sixth in international football, a respectable tally for a player who has often operated on the periphery of the national team. His ability to deliver crucial goals in important moments makes him valuable despite not always being an automatic selection.
For Benin, defeat in their opener complicates their qualification hopes. The Squirrels have shown improvement in recent years, reaching the quarter-finals in 2019 before exiting in the round of 16 at the last tournament. Manager Gernot Rohr, the experienced German tactician, will need to rally his troops ahead of challenging fixtures against Senegal and Botswana.
Benin’s performance offered encouragement despite the result. Their defensive organisation frustrated DR Congo for long periods, and they demonstrated the discipline and work-rate that has characterised Rohr’s tenure. With better fortune and sharper finishing, they might have claimed a point.
The match was played in front of a modest crowd at the Stade de Marrakech, with neither nation able to generate the passionate atmosphere that characterises fixtures involving North African sides or bigger West African nations. The subdued atmosphere perhaps contributed to the cautious nature of the encounter.
DR Congo now turn their attention to their crucial clash with Senegal, the reigning champions who began their title defence with a comprehensive 3-0 victory over Botswana earlier on Tuesday. That fixture will likely determine who tops Group D and secures a more favourable knockout-stage path.
The Leopards will need to raise their performance level to trouble Senegal. Whilst their victory over Benin was professional, it lacked the fluency and cutting edge required to concern top-tier opponents. Desabre will demand greater intensity and sharper execution when facing the champions.
DR Congo’s history at this tournament is distinguished. Their two titles in 1968 and 1974, achieved when the nation was known as Zaire, represent the golden era of Congolese football. Players like Mayanga Maku and Ndaye Mulamba became national heroes, their achievements still celebrated decades later.
The current generation seeks to add to that legacy. Reaching the semi-finals in 2023 demonstrated they possess the quality to compete at the highest level. Whether they can go further and challenge for the trophy remains to be seen, but the talent certainly exists within the squad.
Benin, meanwhile, must regroup quickly. Their next fixture against Senegal represents an enormous challenge, with the champions unlikely to show the same lack of cutting edge DR Congo displayed. The Squirrels will need to be perfect defensively whilst somehow finding greater attacking threat.
Rohr’s experience managing African nations should prove valuable. The German tactician previously guided Nigeria and Gabon, developing a deep understanding of African football’s unique challenges and characteristics. His tactical acumen and man-management skills will be crucial if Benin are to navigate their difficult group.
Match details
DR Congo: Mpasi, Bayeye, Mbemba, Batubinsika, Masuaku, Moutoussamy, Pickel, Bongonda, Wissa, Bakambu, Elia
Benin: Dandjinou, Tijani, Dagbeto, Moumuni, Dossou, D’Almeida, Roche, Adeoti, Hountondji, Dossou, Mounié
Referee: Issa Yaya (Chad)
