What You Need to Know
Senegal has secured the top position in Group D of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations held in Morocco, following a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin. This win, coupled with the Democratic Republic of Congo’s similar result against Botswana, finalizes the group standings, with Senegal leading and Benin advancing as one of the best third-placed teams.
Africa. Senegal has secured the top position in Group D of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations held in Morocco, following a commanding 3-0 victory over Benin in the match that took place on Tuesday evening during the third and final round of the group stage.
The win for the “Lions of Teranga” coincided with the Democratic Republic of Congo’s victory over Botswana by the same scoreline (3-0), confirming the final standings of the group. Senegal finished the competition in first place, followed by the Democratic Republic of Congo in second, while Benin advanced to the Round of 16 as one of the best four third-placed teams.
Senegal raised its points total to 7, accumulated from two wins and a draw, surpassing the Democratic Republic of Congo on goal difference, as both teams ended with the same points. Meanwhile, Benin finished in third place with 3 points, achieving a historic milestone by recording its first win in its Africa Cup of Nations history.
Abdoulaye Seck scored the first goal for Senegal in the 38th minute of the first half, before Habib Diallo extended the lead with a second goal in the 63rd minute, confirming the former African champion’s control of the match.
Despite Senegal facing a numerical disadvantage after captain Kalidou Koulibaly was sent off in the 71st minute, the team maintained its advantage, earning a penalty in stoppage time, which was successfully converted by Sharif Ndiaye for the third goal, concluding the scoring fest.
Senegal is set to face one of the teams that will finish third in Group E in the Round of 16, while the Democratic Republic of Congo will clash with Algeria, and Benin will meet Egypt in the same round.
The Africa Cup of Nations is a prestigious continental tournament held every two years, showcasing the best national teams in Africa. Senegal, a two-time finalist, has a rich football history and is known for its passionate fanbase and talented players. The 2025 edition, hosted in Morocco, marks another opportunity for African nations to compete for the coveted title and demonstrate their football prowess on a continental stage.
