Congo DR and Benin meet in an Africa Cup of Nations tie on Tuesday 23rd December 2025 at 12:30 GMT. Find predictions, stats and betting tips for the AFCON fixture below in this match preview.
| Match Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Competition | Africa Cup of Nations |
| Matchday | 1 |
| Date | Tuesday 23 December 2025 |
| Kick-off Time | 12:30 GMT |
| Venue | Al-Barid Stadium stadium, Rabat city |
| Broadcast | All 4 |
| Market | Prediction | Confidence |
|---|---|---|
| Full-Time Result | Draw | ★★★☆☆ |
| Correct Score | 0-0 Draw | ★★☆☆☆ |
| Both Teams to Score | No | ★★★☆☆ |
| Over/Under 2.5 Goals | Under 2.5 | ★★★☆☆ |
Analysis: While Congo DR are favourites at home, the value lies in Benin at a generous 3/1. Both teams are entering the qualification campaign fresh, with no competitive games played so far in this group. Benin have historically set up to frustrate on the road and, with the pressure on Congo DR as hosts, the draw-no-bet angle covers the possibility of a surprise, especially given the unpredictable nature of early qualification matches where teams are still finding rhythm and chemistry.
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Analysis: Steve Mounié remains Benin’s primary attacking threat. His physical presence and aerial ability offer a unique problem for any defence, especially in a tight game where set pieces could prove decisive. This bet offers notable value, considering Mounié’s role as a focal point and his proven record for both club and country.
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There are no recent competitive results to draw upon for either side this season. Both Congo DR and Benin finished the previous campaign outside direct qualification spots, but both will be motivated to start strongly.
Congo DR under coach Sébastien Desabre typically favour a 4-3-3 setup, focusing on structured defending and quick transitions to the flanks. With a squad featuring attackers such as Cédric Bakambu and Théo Bongonda, expect Congo DR to attack with purpose but retain a disciplined defensive shape. Benin, led by Gernot Rohr, are known for their pragmatic approach, often setting up in a 4-2-3-1 or 4-4-2, prioritising defensive solidity and looking to hit on the counter through pacey forwards like Steve Mounié and Jodel Dossou.
| Statistic | Congo DR | Benin |
|---|---|---|
| League Position | N/A | N/A |
| Goals Scored | 0 | 0 |
| Goals Conceded | 0 | 0 |
| xG (Expected Goals) | N/A | N/A |
| xGA (Expected Goals Against) | N/A | N/A |
Mounié stands out as Benin’s primary goal threat. Known for his physical style and prowess in the air, he offers a direct option both from open play and set pieces. While official stats for the current campaign are yet to be recorded, Mounié’s international pedigree and leadership make him a pivotal figure. He will be tasked with holding up play and capitalising on any defensive lapses from Congo DR, especially given the lack of recent match rhythm for either team. Punters should watch for his involvement on corners and free-kicks, where his aerial ability can turn the tide.
This AFCON clash is set up as a cagey affair, with Congo DR the bookmakers’ choice given home advantage and squad depth. However, Benin’s defensive discipline and counter-attacking ambition offer scope for an upset at significant value. Key battles, particularly involving Steve Mounié for Benin, could decide the contest. With both teams just starting their campaigns, a low-scoring game is likely, making ‘Under 2.5 Goals’ and ‘Both Teams to Score: No’ attractive propositions. Punters seeking value should consider Benin in the draw-no-bet market or look to player props around Mounié.
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