The Africa Cup of Nations group stage continued to take shape on a busy day of fixtures, with early statements made by some of the tournament favourites and narrow margins defining others. This AFCON 2025 Round up highlights the key moments from these matches.
DR Congo opened their AFCON campaign with a hard-fought victory over Benin, edging the contest thanks to an early breakthrough. This AFCON 2025 Round up includes this significant result.
Théo Bongonda struck in the 16th minute, finishing confidently to give the Leopards an advantage they would not relinquish. From there, Sébastien Desabre’s side managed the game well, controlling possession and limiting Benin to few clear opportunities.
Benin grew into the match after the break but struggled to turn pressure into chances, with DR Congo’s defensive structure holding firm to secure a valuable opening three points.
Senegal delivered one of the standout performances of the day, easing past Botswana with a dominant display that underlined their tournament credentials. This AFCON 2025 Round up ensures that their performance is spotlighted.
Nicolas Jackson opened the scoring shortly before half-time and doubled his tally after the interval, before Cheikh Ndiaye added a late third to cap off a commanding night for Aliou Cissé’s side.
The Lions of Teranga registered 22 shots and 13 on target, overwhelming Botswana throughout and setting an early benchmark in Group D according to this AFCON 2025 round up.
READ HERE: Senegal 3-0 Botswana
Nigeria were made to work for their victory but ultimately showed enough quality to begin their AFCON campaign with three points. In this AFCON 2025 Round up, their hard-fought win is featured prominently.
Semi Ajayi opened the scoring in the 36th minute before Tanzania responded after the break through Clement M’Mombwa, briefly unsettling the Super Eagles. Ademola Lookman restored Nigeria’s lead soon after, and José Peseiro’s side saw out the contest despite late pressure.
It was not a flawless performance, but Nigeria’s ability to grind out results may prove crucial as the tournament progresses.
Tunisia started their group stage strongly with a controlled win over Uganda, built on an efficient attacking display. This match story is included in the AFCON 2025 round up as a key highlight.
Ellyes Skhiri opened the scoring early before Elias Achouri added two goals either side of half-time to put the match beyond doubt. Uganda pulled one back deep into stoppage time through Denis Omedi, but the result was already sealed.
The Carthage Eagles looked assured in possession and clinical when chances arose, marking a solid start to their AFCON journey.
