The Africa Cup of Nations Group D will deliver a heavyweight clash on Saturday, as Senegal faces DR Congo at the Stade Ibn Batouta (Tanger), with both teams looking to make it to the next round.
Senegal could not have asked for a better opening to their campaign, brushing aside Botswana with a 3-0 victory that reinforced their reputation as Africa’s top-ranked nation and a leading contender for the trophy.
The Lions of Teranga have been operating at a fearsome level of late, claiming seven wins from their last eight outings and regularly overwhelming opponents, with three or more goals scored in five of those successes.
DR Congo, meanwhile, also began positively, though in a more measured fashion, edging past Benin 1-0 to take maximum points on matchday one. That result continues an excellent period for Sebastien Desabre’s side, who finished fourth at the last AFCON and arrive here on a six-match winning streak.
They have had five clean sheets during that run, including a crucial victory over Nigeria that secured a place in the 2026 World Cup inter-confederation play-offs.
With both sides in outstanding form, the Leopards will believe they have a genuine opportunity to make history by winning their opening two matches at a Nations Cup final for the first time.
Read our Senegal vs DR Congo predictions and preview to find out, but remember to also check our other AFCON predictions.
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Senegal vs DR Congo prediction: Host to nick a win
Key statistics
- Over 2.5 goals have been scored in three of their last five meetings.
- Senegal have won four of their last five encounters with DR Congo.
- Both teams have scored in three of their last five clashes.
Correct score prediction: Senegal 2-1 DR Congo
Both teams are currently in form heading into this game, but we tip the Teranga Lions to find a win in this encounter based on the quality of their squad. Senegal have been exceptionally difficult to score against in recent major tournaments and their squad depth provides a significant advantage.
While the DR Congo poses a threat, we believe that the individual quality of the Senegalese attackers will ultimately prevail, and we are therefore predicting a 2-0 victory for Senegal.
Pre-match odds and win probability: Senegal slight favourites
- Home: 4/6 (1.67) – 60.0%
- Draw: 11/5 (3.20) – 31.3%
- Away: 19/5 (4.80) – 20.8%
*Odds provided by Ladbrokes. Subject to change.*
The bookmakers give Senegal the edge in this contest, with odds of 1.67 implying a 60.0% chance of victory. DR Congo are priced at 4.80 (20.8%), reflecting respect for their strong recent form, while the draw is considered a realistic outcome at 3.20 (31.3%).
This suggests a competitive encounter, though Senegal are still expected to have the upper hand over 90 minutes.
Most recent head-to-head: The Teranga Lions hold the upper hand
The last five competitive meetings between Senegal and DR Congo show that the home side has been more successful. The Teranga Lions have won four of their last five meetings with the Leopards, failing to claim any victory and just one draw between them.
In June 2024, the two nations played out a hard-fought 1-1 draw in a World Cup qualifier and Senegal went on to win the return leg 3-2 away from home. They also met at the 2023 AFCON, where the Teranga Lions won 3-0.
Africa - World Cup Qualifying 06/06/24
Senegal
Congo DR
African Nations Championship 22/01/23
Senegal
Congo DR
After reviewing our key Senegal vs DR Congo predictions, be sure to visit our website for the remaining football betting tips today.
Senegal preview: Minimal disruption ahead of key clash
Senegal have very few selection issues to contend with, as Assane Diao is the only confirmed absentee after being ruled out through injury. His absence slightly reduces the attacking options available in the team.
Predicted lineup: Edouard (GK), Krepin, Kalidou, Moussa, Ismail, Idrissa, Pape, Ismaila, Iliman, Sadio & Jackson
Last five fixtures
- 23.12.25 – Senegal 3 – 0 Botswana (AFCON)
- 18.11.25 – Senegal 8 – 0 Kenya (Friendly)
- 15.11.25 – Brazil 2 – 0 Senegal (Friendly)
- 14.10.25 – Senegal 4 – 0 Mauritania (World Cup Qualifier)
- 10.10.25 – South Sudan 0 – 5 Senegal (World Cup Qualifier)
DR Congo preview: Near full-strength squad available
DR Congo also head into this fixture with limited concerns, with Mario Stroeykens the sole player unavailable due to injury. With the rest of the squad fit and available, Desabre is expected to have plenty of flexibility when selecting his starting XI for this important encounter.
Predicted lineup: Mpasi-Nzau (GK), Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, Masuaku, Moutoussamy, Bongonda, Kayembe, Sadiki, Mbuku & Bakambu
Last five fixtures
- 23.12.25 – D.R. Congo 1 – 0 Benin (AFCON)
- 16.12.25 – D.R. Congo 2 – 0 Zambia (Friendly)
- 16.11.25 – Nigeria 1 – 2 D.R. Congo (World Cup Qualifier)
- 13.11.25 – Cameroon 0 – 1 D.R. Congo (World Cup Qualifier)
- 14.10.25 – D.R. Congo 1 – 0 Sudan (World Cup Qualifier)
Player to watch: Nicolas Jackson
Nicolas Jackson is expected to be the main man in the team, having led the squad for some years and proven to be a key player in the team. The forward started the AFCON with two goals in the opening game.
Following his two goals, he will be looking to help his team get past DR Congo in this clash and his presence in attack could be the key to unlocking the visitors' defence as they aim for the knockout phase.