The excitement of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations continues this Tuesday as Botswana prepare to face DR Congo in the third game of Group D at the Al Barid Stadium.
Botswana’s AFCON journey has come to a disappointing end after heavy defeats to Senegal (3-0) and Benin (1-0), results that have stretched their poor run to six losses in seven international matches.
Given their limited pedigree at this level, those struggles are hardly unexpected, with the Zebras’ only previous appearance at the finals in 2012 also ending in three straight defeats, a scenario they will be desperate not to repeat here.
D.R. Congo, on the other hand, approach this fixture in a far stronger position. Sitting second in the group, level on points with favourites Senegal, but trailing only on goal difference after a hard-fought 1-1 draw between the sides.
Backed by five wins from their last six competitive outings and four clean sheets in that run, confidence will be high as they aim to secure a fifth successive place in the Nations Cup knockout stages.
Read our Botswana vs DR Congo predictions and preview to find out, and remember to check our other AFCON predictions.
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Botswana vs DR Congo prediction: The Leopards to win
Key statistics
- First-half draws were played in their last two meetings.
- Botswana have lost four of their last five games in all competitions.
- DR Congo have not conceded a goal in three of their last five games.
Correct score prediction: Botswana 0-2 DR Congo
This matchup is expected to tilt firmly in favour of the visitors, who should approach the game with confidence and control as they push for a strong foothold in the group.
Botswana may focus on organisation and discipline to keep the contest tight, but sustained pressure and superior attacking options from the Congolese side are likely to wear them down over time. Once openings appear, the Leopards’ efficiency in front of the goal should prove decisive, pointing toward a 2-0 scoreline.
Pre-match odds and win probability: DR Congo strong favourites
- Home: 9/1 (10.00) – 10.0%
- Draw: 18/5 (4.60) – 21.7%
- Away: 1/4 (1.25) – 80.0%
Odds provided by Ladbrokes. Subject to change.
The bookmakers heavily favour DR Congo to take all three points, with odds of 1.25 implying an 80.0% chance of victory. Botswana are clear underdogs at 10.00 (10.0%), reflecting the gap in quality and recent form between the sides, while the draw is priced at 4.60 (21.7%). The odds point firmly towards a comfortable away win, unless Botswana can produce a major upset.
Most recent head-to-head: Balanced record
The recent head-to-head record between these two teams have not been much and they have only met each other twice in a competitive game. In those two games, each country secured a win in each of the competitive matches.
The most recent encounter took place in 2017, where the Leopards secured a 2-0 victory, while the second meeting ended in a 0-0 draw in 2016, but Botswana went on to win on penalties.
COSAFA Cup 22/06/16
Botswana
Congo DR
After reviewing our key Botswana vs DR Congo predictions, be sure to visit our website for the remaining football betting tips today.
Botswana preview: Botswana full strength
Botswana have no injury or suspension concerns ahead of this fixture, meaning the Zebras will be able to call on a full squad as they play for pride in their final group game.
Predicted lineup: Phoko (GK), Velaphi, Gaolaolwe, Ditlhokwe, Johnson, Ditsele, Mohutsiwa, Ratshukudu, Orebonye, Seakanyeng & Kebatho
Last five fixtures
- 27.12.25 – Benin 1–0 Botswana
- 23.12.25 – Senegal 3–0 Botswana
- 18.12.25 – Tunisia 2–1 Botswana
- 14.10.25 – Guinea 2–2 Botswana
- 09.10.25 – Botswana 0–1 Uganda
DR Congo preview: DR Congo to miss Stroeykens
DR Congo, however, will be without Mario Stroeykens, who remains sidelined through injury. Aside from his absence, the Leopards have no other reported issues as they look to confirm their place in the knockout stages.
Predicted lineup: Mpasi-Nzau (GK), Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Kayembe, Moutoussamy, Bongonda, Mukau, Sadiki, Elia & Bakambu
Last five fixtures
- 27.12.25 – Senegal 1–1 D.R. Congo
- 23.12.25 – D.R. Congo 1–0 Benin
- 16.12.25 – D.R. Congo 2–0 Zambia
- 16.11.25 – Nigeria 1–2 D.R. Congo
- 13.11.25 – Cameroon 0–1 D.R. Congo
Player to watch: Theo Bongonda
Theo Bongonda will be DR Congo’s main attacking threat in this game. The forward has started his AFCON campaign with a goal, scoring the only goal that gave his team the win. With Bongonda leading the attack, his involvement will be vital in driving his team and helping secure a crucial victory.