“We should have won” — Mane reacts after Senegal draw vs. DR Congo at AFCON

27.12.25 FT AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations

Senegal

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DR Congo

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Senegal forward Sadio Mane has played down concerns after the reigning African champions were held to 1-1 draw by the Democratic Republic of Congo in their second Group D match at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.

Despite dominating large spells of the contest, the Teranga Lions were forced to settle for point after conceding first before Mane struck back to preserve Senegal’s unbeaten start to the tournament.

Speaking after the match, Mane admitted Senegal had chances to secure all three point but accepted the result as part of the realities of tournament football.

“I think it was good match. We should have won but unfortunately we couldn’t convert all our chances,” Mane said.

“That’s not problem. This is football. We faced very good and respectable opponent in Congo who also deserved a point.”

The Al Nassr winger stressed the importance of mental and physical readiness in competition as demanding as AFCON.

“We expected difficult match. At the Africa Cup of Nations, you must always be prepared to face any opponent,” he added.

Comeback keeps Senegal top of Group D

Senegal were stunned in the 61 minute when Cedric Bakambu gave DR Congo the lead capitalising on rare defensive lapse.

However Mane responded just eight minute later netting his 51st international goal to restore parity and maintain Senegal’s grip on first place in the group.

The draw leaves both Senegal & DR Congo on four point after two match, with Senegal ahead on goal difference following their emphatic 3-0 win over Botswana in the opening round.

Qualification within reach ahead of final Group match

With one group game remaining, both sides are well placed to progress to the last 16 needing only positive result in their final fixtures on Tuesday to confirm qualification.

Senegal will face Benin, a side buoyed by historic victory earlier in the day.

Group D standings after Matchday two

• Senegal – 4 points
• DR Congo – 4 points
• Benin – 3 points
• Botswana – 0 points

Khaled Hegazy |

Editorar, en

Journaliste sportif spécialisé dans la couverture du football et la création de contenu numérique, alliant expérience éditoriale et expertise des médias sociaux.

Related teams and leagues

Senegal

DR Congo

AFCON - Africa Cup of Nations