Post: AFCON 2025: Mane Scores for Senegal to Secure Draw Against DR Congo

Tangiers: Sadio Mane’s equalizer earned 2022 champions Senegal a 1-1 draw with the Democratic Republic of Congo in their heavyweight Africa Cup of Nations clash on Saturday. Cedric Bakambu had given the Leopards the lead just after the hour mark, but Al Nassr forward Mane replied soon after, ensuring Senegal stays on top of Group D with one round of matches still to play. According to France24.com, both teams now have four points, but Senegal holds a superior goal difference ahead of their final group match against Benin on Tuesday. Benin currently has three points after securing a 1-0 victory earlier on Saturday in Rabat against Botswana, who remain at the bottom without a point or a goal scored. Sebastien Desabre’s Congolese side was seeking revenge after a dramatic defeat in their last meeting during World Cup qualifying in September. In that encounter, Senegal came from 2-0 down to win 3-2 in Kinshasa, a result that allowed them to top their group and secure a place at the next year’s finals in North America. DR Congo settled for second place but still has a chance to make the World Cup if they win a playoff against either New Caledonia or Jamaica in Mexico in March. Senegal, buoyed by their recent 3-0 victory over Botswana, had more possession and chances during the match. However, the Leopards took the lead in the 61st minute when Theo Bongonda’s shot was parried by goalkeeper Edouard Mendy, allowing Real Betis striker Bakambu to convert the loose ball. Senegal was behind for only eight minutes, with their equalizer coming after a superb run by teenage substitute Ibrahim Mbaye. The 17-year-old Paris Saint-Germain winger, who recently committed his international future to Senegal, replaced Ismaila Sarr shortly after Bakambu’s opener. Mbaye’s penetrating run down the right saw him burst away from Arthur Masuaku, who appeared to injure himself during the tackle, and then saw his shot blocked by Lionel Mpasi. Mane was on hand to score, marking his 10th AFCON goal and appearing in his sixth tournament.