Sport|Africa Cup of NationsMane rescues Senegal in draw with DR Congo, as Benin find first AFCON winFormer Liverpool forward Sadio Mane scores the equaliser as Senegal avoid DR Congo upset, while Benin beat Botswana.

Senegal vs. Democratic Republic of the Congo

Senegal secured a 1-1 draw against the Democratic Republic of the Congo (DRC) in their Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) Group D match on Sat, Oct 14, 2023. Sadio Mane scored the equalizer after Cedric Bakambu had given DRC the lead in the 61st minute. This result maintains Senegal's position at the top of Group D with one match remaining.

Both teams currently have four points, with Senegal holding the advantage due to a superior goal difference. Senegal will play their final group match against Benin on Tuesday.

DRC aims to qualify for the World Cup by winning a playoff match against either New Caledonia or Jamaica in March.

Benin achieved their first victory in AFCON history with a 1-0 win against Botswana in Rabat on Sat, Oct 14, 2023. Yohan Roche scored the decisive goal in the 28th minute, bringing Benin to three points in Group D.

Despite Botswana's attempts, including a shot hitting the crossbar by Mothusi Johnson, they could not score. Benin created additional opportunities but were unable to extend their lead.

Botswana, having lost their first five Cup of Nations matches, will face DRC in their final group game on Tuesday. At the same time, Benin will compete against Senegal.

The top two teams in each group and the four best third-placed teams across all groups will advance to the Round of 16.

Based on reporting by Al Jazeera.