Mane Rescues Senegal As Dr Congo Hold Firm In Tangier
Sadio Mane struck late to cancel out Cedric Bakambu’s opener as Senegal and DR Congo played out a hard fought 1-1 draw in their Africa Cup of Nations Group D clash at the Grand Stade de Tanger.
Senegal were forced to settle for a point after a tense 1-1 draw against DR Congo in their second Group D match of the Africa Cup of Nations, with Sadio Mane once again stepping up when it mattered most.
The opening half was scrappy and physical, with both sides struggling to find rhythm. Senegal enjoyed more possession but lacked incision in the final third, while DR Congo looked dangerous on the break through Theo Bongonda and Cedric Bakambu. Chances were limited, and the first half ended scoreless despite a flurry of fouls and stoppages.
The game burst into life shortly after the restart. DR Congo struck first in the 61st minute when Bakambu reacted quickest inside the box, firing a close range left footed finish past Edouard Mendy to stun the Senegalese supporters. The goal rewarded Congo’s growing confidence and sharp counter attacking play.
Senegal responded by pushing numbers forward and increasing the tempo. Substitutions added urgency, and the pressure finally paid off in the 69th minute. Mane showed his trademark composure, controlling the ball in the box before drilling a right footed shot into the bottom corner to restore parity.
Both sides had moments late on, with Congo threatening on the break and Senegal probing through set pieces and wide areas. However, strong defending and goalkeeping ensured there was no late winner, as tempers flared and fouls disrupted the closing stages.
The result leaves Group D finely balanced, with Senegal showing resilience but still searching for full control, while DR Congo will take confidence from a disciplined performance against one of the tournament favourites.
