The TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025 continues with drama, discipline, and early statements of intent. Across Rabat, Tangier, and beyond, favourites were tested, challengers showed bite, and their opening game nerves shaped tight contests. It was a reminder that at AFCON, nothing comes easy.
DR Congo began their campaign with a narrow but valuable 1–0 win over Benin at the Al Madina Stadium. Théo Bongonda’s calm 16th-minute finish punished a defensive mix-up and proved decisive. It was not flashy, but it was effective.
The Leopards arrived with belief after reaching the 2026 World Cup play-offs. That confidence showed in their early control and sharp passing. Cédric Bakambu went close twice, but Benin goalkeeper Saturnin Allagbé kept his side alive.
Benin, missing five suspended starters, refused to collapse. They stayed compact and searched for chances through counters and set pieces. Still, DR Congo’s back line stood firm under pressure.
Bongonda, named Man of the Match, struck a measured tone. “It was a difficult match,” he said. “The most important thing is to keep moving forward and go as far as possible in this competition.”
In Tangier, Senegal sent a far louder message. The reigning champions swept aside Botswana 3–0, with Nicolas Jackson scoring twice in a dominant display. Only an inspired performance from goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko kept the score respectable early on.
The breakthrough finally came before the break through Jackson, after a precise cross from Ismail Jakobs. Senegal never looked back. A second Jackson goal and a late Cherif Ndiaye finish sealed a commanding win.
Jackson praised the team focus after the game. “Most importantly we won the match and played well,” he said. Coach Pape Thiaw highlighted discipline and professionalism as key.
Nigeria’s opener against Tanzania delivered the most drama. The Super Eagles led through Semi Ajayi’s powerful header, then saw control slip after the break. Tanzania shocked them with a swift equaliser.
Any joy was brief. Ademola Lookman responded within a minute with a stunning curled strike to restore Nigeria’s lead. The Super Eagles then managed the game with calm and experience.
Ajayi reflected on the performance. “There are a lot of positives to take from the game and some things to fix,” he said. Nigeria coach Eric Chelle echoed that view, stressing the need to kill games earlier.
Tunisia completed the opening-night picture with a confident 3–1 win over Uganda in Rabat. Elyes Skhiri set the tone early, before Elias Achouri struck twice with composure and control. Even heavy rain could not slow Tunisia’s rhythm.
Uganda coach Paul Put admitted his side showed too much respect. Tunisia coach Sami Trabelsi praised his squad depth and the warm Moroccan welcome. Achouri thanked supporters for braving the weather.
