DR Congo start AFCON 2025 against Benin in Rabat on 23 Dec, with DR Congo clear favorites given squad depth and recent form. Betting angle: back DR Congo moneyline or -0.5 Asian handicap for a safer play; consider Under 3.0 goals if you expect a controlled opener. UK viewers can stream free on Channel 4.
Match overview
DR Congo face Benin in their Group D opener on Tuesday 23 December 2025 at Al Barid Stadium, Rabat. Kick-off is 12:30 GMT / 07:30 ET / 13:30 local.
Broadcast and streaming information
UK
The match will be shown live on 4seven and Channel 4’s online streaming service, with coverage beginning shortly before kick-off. Channel 4 offers a free stream in the UK with registration.
USA
In the United States the game is available on beIN Sports. Customers will need a cable package or a streaming service that carries beIN Sports.
Africa
Canal+, SuperSport and beIN Sports hold regional rights across the continent; Canal+ will show the match in DR Congo and Benin. Check local listings for exact channel availability.
Team news and tactics
DR Congo arrive off a strong 2023 showing where they finished fourth. Manager Sébastien Desabre must cope without Yoane Wissa, who missed out through injury and fitness concerns. Expect Desabre to lean on a balanced lineup featuring defensive steel and quick wide attackers.
Benin finished close to qualifying to the World Cup in the recent cycle and possess dangerous counter-attacking options. Steve Mounie leads the side and provides a focal point up front, while younger names like Andreas Hountondji and Tamimou Ouorou offer pace and unpredictability.
Key players to watch
Noah Sadiki — mobile in midfield, capable of linking defence and attack. Cédric Bakambu — experienced forward threat with a proven scoring touch. Chancel Mbemba — defensive organiser and aerial presence. Steve Mounie — Benin’s main attacking outlet and set-piece threat. Andreas Hountondji — pacey forward currently on loan in the Bundesliga.
How to watch DR Congo vs Benin in Africa
The game will be shown on Canal+ in both the DR Congo and Benin.
Canal+, SuperSport, and beIN Sports are the major regional broadcasters for AFCON, with the different services operating in various countries, but whichever service covers your country will have all games live.
Injury and selection notes
Yoane Wissa is absent from DR Congo’s squad due to injury and fitness issues, increasing reliance on the likes of Bakambu and Balikwisha. Benin have called up Tamimou Ouorou despite limited club action this season; squad fitness and match sharpness will be factors for both teams.
Prediction and betting tips
Prediction: DR Congo 2-0 Benin. Betting tips: - Back DR Congo to win (moneyline) or take DR Congo -0.5 on the Asian handicap for a safer single. - Consider Under 3.0 goals if you expect a cagey, tactical opening match. - If seeking a goalscorer wager, Cédric Bakambu or Steve Mounie are the most likely candidates to find the net.
Match significance
An opening win would set DR Congo up strongly in Group D and validate pre-tournament expectations, while a positive result for Benin would signal a competitive campaign and boost their Group D prospects.
CAN 2025: The schedule for Tuesday, December 23, 2025
DR Congo face Benin in the first Group D game of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations – here's how to watch the game online and on TV wherever you are in the world.
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