AFCON 2025 Latest: DR Congo Set Up Algeria Knockout Clash After Botswana Win

In a thrilling conclusion to the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations qualifiers, DR Congo secured second place in Group D with a dominant victory over already-eliminated Botswana, setting up a high-stakes knockout clash against Algeria.DR Congo demolished Botswana, showcasing their attacking prowess despite finishing behind group leaders.[1][2]

The match highlighted the emergence of former Chelsea youth star, whose precise assist proved pivotal in DR Congo's win, earning plaudits for his composure under pressure. This performance not only propelled the Leopards into the knockout stage but also ignited excitement for their upcoming battle with the Desert Foxes, Algeria, who topped their group with clinical efficiency.[1]

Key Qualifier Highlights

• Senegal edged past Burundi in their final qualifier, with a resilient 10-man display securing their spot despite the numerical disadvantage.[1]
• Tanzania, Botswana, and Mozambique clinched the last berths, with the Mambas triumphing in Bissau for a dramatic ticket to AFCON.[1]
• Côte d’Ivoire dazzled in a thriller against Chad, while Ethiopia stunned DR Congo earlier for a consolation win.[1]
• South Africa topped Group K after a comfortable victory, with coach Hugo Broos praising improvements; Cameroon signed off with a win over Zimbabwe.[1][2]
• Comoros made history by defeating Madagascar, and Morocco punished Lesotho in a seven-goal spectacle.[1]

Group Standings Snapshot

Group/Team	Pts	GD
Group D: Egypt	9	+7
DR Congo	6	+2
South Africa (Group K)	9	+5

Coaches reacted candidly: Ghana's Otto Addo faced resignation calls, while Bafana Bafana's Broos admitted areas for growth. As qualifiers wrap on 30 December 2025, anticipation builds for knockout drama.[1][2]

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