By Kunle Solaja.
Group D of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, which kicks off in Morocco on Sunday, brings together pedigree, ambition and underdog spirit, with former champions Senegal topping a group that also includes DR Congo, Benin Republic and Botswana.
Although Senegal are no longer the reigning champions, the Teranga Lions remain one of the tournament’s strongest sides and will face stern tests from experienced and motivated opponents. Group D matches will be staged in Tangier and Rabat.
Fixtures (Kick-off times GMT)
- Dec 23 (17:00) – Tangier: Botswana v Senegal
- Dec 23 (19:30) – Rabat: Benin v DR Congo
- Dec 27 (17:00) – Tangier: DR Congo v Senegal
- Dec 27 (19:30) – Rabat: Benin v Botswana
- Dec 30 (19:30) – Tangier: Benin v Senegal
- Dec 30 (19:30) – Rabat: Botswana v DR Congo
Senegal: Former Champions Still Among the Favourites
Senegal arrive in Morocco as Africa Cup of Nations winners in 2021 and one of the continent’s most consistent teams of the last decade. Ranked 19th in the world, the Teranga Lions are making their 17th AFCON appearance after finishing top of their qualifying group ahead of Burkina Faso, Burundi and Malawi.
Under coach Pape Thiaw, Senegal retain much of the core that has made them perennial contenders. Kalidou Koulibaly remains the defensive leader, while the midfield boasts a blend of experience and energy in Idrissa Gana Gueye, Pape Matar Sarr and Lamine Camara. In attack, Sadio Mané continues to be the team’s talisman, supported by a formidable cast that includes Nicolas Jackson, Ismaila Sarr and Boulaye Dia.
Senegal will be expected to progress, but Group D offers no margin for complacency.
DR Congo: Two-Time Winners with Renewed Belief
Two-time African champions DR Congo bring history and ambition into the group. Winners in 1968 and 1974, the Leopards are making their 21st AFCON appearance and are ranked 56th globally.
Coach Sébastien Desabre has assembled a squad heavy on European-based professionals. The defence features high-profile names such as Chancel Mbemba, Axel Tuanzebe and Aaron Wan-Bissaka, while the attack is led by Cedric Bakambu, Simon Banza and Fiston Mayele.
Having topped their qualifying group ahead of Tanzania and Guinea, DR Congo will view their clash with Senegal as a defining moment in the group.
Benin Republic: Rohr’s Familiar AFCON Project
Benin return for their fifth Africa Cup of Nations appearance, still buoyed by their impressive quarter-final run in 2019 — their best showing to date. Ranked 92nd in the world, the Squirrels qualified behind Nigeria in their group.
Coached by former Super Eagles handler Gernot Rohr, Benin rely on structure, organisation and discipline. Captain Steve Mounié leads the attack, while defenders such as Olivier Verdon and David Kiki provide experience and stability.
Benin’s opening match against DR Congo could be pivotal in shaping their knockout hopes.
Botswana: Determined Underdogs on a Rare Stage
Botswana complete Group D as the lowest-ranked team, placed 138th globally, but arrive with pride after qualifying for only their second AFCON finals, following their debut in 2012.
Coached by Morena Ramoreboli, the Zebras are built around domestic league players, with forwards Tumisang Orebonye and Kabelo Seakanyeng among the key attacking threats. While expectations are modest, Botswana will aim to frustrate opponents and chase a first-ever win at the Africa Cup of Nations.
Group D Outlook
Group D may lack the defending champions, but it is rich in competitiveness. Senegal bring pedigree and depth, DR Congo offer experience and power, Benin add tactical organisation, while Botswana provide the unpredictability that defines AFCON.
With matches split between Tangier and Rabat, the group promises tight contests, contrasting styles and a fierce battle for progression to the knockout stage.
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