23 December 2025 at 12:30
Match Summary
Congo DR defeated Benin 1:0. The match was played in Africa Cup of Nations 2025. Goals were scored by T. Bongonda 16′. 6 yellow cards were shown. Congo DR had 40% possession while Benin held 60%. Congo DR had 11 shots (3 on target) compared to 12 (2 on target) for Benin. Congo DR made 5 substitutions, Benin made 3. VAR was involved: Goal cancelled (Cédric Bakambu 51′).
Match Events
Key match events between Congo DR and Benin — 1 goals and 6 cards recorded during the match.
assist: A. Masuaku
Match Statistics
Congo DR had 40% possession against Benin's 60%. Congo DR registered 11 shots (3 on target) while Benin managed 12 (2 on target). Corner kicks: 5–5. Fouls committed: 16–11.
Lineups
Congo DR lined up in a 4-1-4-1 formation under Otis N'Goma Kondi, while Benin deployed a 4-2-3-1 under Gernot Rohr.
Squad Ratings
The overall squad rating for Congo DR is 6.85, compared to 6.67 for Benin. This metric is derived from each player's average match rating across all league appearances this season — anything above 7.00 is considered strong, while below 6.50 signals inconsistency. Congo DR's highest-rated starter is C. Mbemba (7.15), while Benin's best-rated player is Y. Roche (7.08).
Attacking Output
The starting XI of Congo DR have contributed 3 goals and 1 assists this season, led by T. Bongonda (1G). Benin's starters account for 2 goals and 0 assists, spearheaded by Y. Roche (1G). Goals reflect clinical finishing and chance creation, while assists highlight the ability to unlock defences through through-balls, crosses, and set pieces.
Defensive Solidity
Congo DR deploy 4 defenders rated 6.85 on average, against Benin's 4-man backline averaging 6.79. Higher defensive ratings suggest better positional awareness, fewer individual errors, and a greater likelihood of keeping clean sheets. The rating accounts for tackles won, interceptions, aerial duels, and blocks throughout the season.
Midfield Control
Congo DR field 5 midfielders averaging 6.89, versus Benin's 5 rated 6.56. Midfield ratings reflect passing accuracy, interceptions, key passes, and overall control of possession — the team that dominates midfield typically dictates the tempo and territory of the match.
Forward Threat
Congo DR start 1 forward(s) averaging 6.50, compared to 1 for Benin averaging 6.40. Forward ratings capture shot accuracy, movement off the ball, dribbling success, and involvement in build-up play — they indicate who carries the greater goal threat on the day.
Passing & Build-Up
Passing accuracy averages —% for Congo DR and 52% for Benin. Higher passing accuracy generally indicates a possession-based style with patient build-up through the thirds, while lower figures may suggest a more direct, counter-attacking approach with long balls and quick transitions.
Discipline
Congo DR's starters have collected 5 yellow cards this season, compared to 7 for Benin. Yellow cards reflect how aggressively a team presses and tackles — a high count may indicate a physical, high-pressing style but also risks suspensions and late free-kicks in dangerous areas.
Age & Experience
The average age of Congo DR's starting XI is 28.5 (youngest: N. Sadiki (21), oldest: C. Bakambu (34)), while Benin average 25.6 (youngest: R. Aloko (16), oldest: J. Dossou (33)). Younger squads typically offer pace, energy, and pressing intensity, while experienced lineups bring composure, game management, and the ability to handle high-pressure moments.
Squad Depth
Congo DR's starters average 3 league appearances each, versus 3 for Benin. High appearance counts indicate an established, well-drilled unit that the manager trusts week in and week out. Lower figures may suggest rotation, injuries, or emerging players still earning their place in the team.
Substitutes
Coach: Otis N'Goma Kondi
Substitutes
Coach: Gernot Rohr
Recent Form
In their last 6 matches, Congo DR have recorded 4 wins, 1 draws and 1 defeats. Benin show 1 wins, 0 draws and 5 losses from their last 6 outings.
Congo DR
Benin
API data: 15 Mar 2026