The draw for the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) has placed Senegal in Group D alongside DR Congo, Benin, and Botswana.
One fixture drawing particular attention is Senegal’s matchup against DR Congo, set for December 27, as the Lions boast an extraordinary record of 56 years without defeat against the Leopards.
Their most recent encounter, a World Cup qualifier on June 6, 2024, ended in a 1-1 draw in Dakar.
A return leg is scheduled for September, but the historical record remains in Senegal’s favor.
Out of twelve matches between the two sides, Senegal has claimed victory five times, while DR Congo has won only twice, with the remaining five games ending in draws.
Senegal has scored 15 goals in these meetings compared to 12 by DR Congo.
The Leopards’ last victory against the Lions dates back to January 1969, highlighting Senegal’s long-standing dominance.
A history of key clashes
The rivalry between the two nations has produced several memorable moments.
In the 2024 draw, both teams showcased their resilience, but Senegal’s last outright win against DR Congo came in Dakar in 2011 with a 2-0 scoreline.
Another notable match occurred in 2010 when Senegal triumphed 4-2 in Lubumbashi.
During the 2002 AFCON, Senegal emerged victorious with a 2-0 win in Bamako, a result that solidified their reputation on the continental stage.
Earlier matches included a goalless draw in Dakar in 2006 and Senegal’s victories in 1989 and 1987.
DR Congo’s only wins in the rivalry occurred back-to-back in 1968 and 1969, marking the end of their success against the Lions.
Looking ahead
As the two sides prepare to meet once again in December 2025, Senegal will aim to extend their remarkable unbeaten streak, while DR Congo will look to end over five decades of frustration.
With the stakes high and both teams eyeing progression from Group D, the clash promises to be one of the tournament’s standout fixtures.
