DR Congo defeat Botswana 3-0 to advance in the next round in AFCON2025 following a masterclass performance by Gael Kakuta at the Al Madina Stadium in Rabat. The victory, secured on Tuesday, 30 December 2025, ensured that “Les Leopards” finished the group stage on a high note, claiming the second spot in Group D. This clinical win sets up a high-stakes Round of 16 clash against the tournament favorites, Algeria.
Gael Kakuta Masterclass Steals the Show
The DR Congo vs Botswana narrative was defined by the brilliance of Gael Kakuta. Despite initially not being slated for the starting XI, the playmaker produced a “Man of the Match” display, involving himself in every goal.
The Breakthrough
The deadlock was broken in the 31st minute through an audacious backheel assist from Kakuta, which allowed Nathaniel Mbuku to poke the ball home. This moment of individual brilliance was the catalyst for a dominant Les Leopards victory.
Final Group D Standings
With the conclusion of the final matches on December 30, the hierarchy of Group D is now set. While Senegal took the top spot on goal difference, DR Congo’s unbeaten run solidified their status as serious contenders in AFCON 2025.
AFCON 2025: Group D Table
| Pos | Team | P | W | D | L | GD | Pts | Status |
| 1 | Senegal | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | +6 | 7 | Qualified (1st) |
| 2 | DR Congo | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | +4 | 7 | Qualified (2nd) |
| 3 | Benin | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | -3 | 3 | Qualified (Best 3rd) |
| 4 | Botswana | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | -7 | 0 | Eliminated |
Dominance Rewarded: The Second Goal
Just before the interval, Meschack Elia’s cross was blocked by a handball from Thabo Leinanyane. After a VAR review, Kakuta stepped up to the spot, converting the penalty with authority to make it 2-0. DR Congo went into the break with total control of the match.
Les Leopards Victory Sealed
The second half saw no reprieve for Botswana. On the hour mark, Gael Kakuta completed his brace, controlling a cross from Theo Bongonda and calmly picking his spot to make it 3-0. Although Fiston Mayele had a fourth goal ruled out by VAR for handball, the result was already beyond doubt.
DR Congo defeat Botswana 3-0 to advance in the next round in AFCON2025, marking the fifth consecutive time the nation has reached the knockout stages.
Round of 16: Algeria Awaits
By finishing second, DR Congo has booked a date with Algeria, the leaders of Group E. The match is scheduled for Tuesday, 6 January 2026, in what promises to be a “mouth-watering” tactical battle.
Match Reactions
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Gael Kakuta: “I wasn’t supposed to be in the starting 11, and here I am being named Man of the Match. I would like to highlight our collective strength.”
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Morena Ramoreboli (Botswana Coach): “We are leaving the competition, but I really liked my players’ attitude today; they gave everything until the end.”
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Conclusion
DR Congo defeat Botswana 3-0 to advance in the next round in AFCON2025 with clinical precision. With a balanced squad and a playmaker in peak form, the Leopards are ready to challenge the continent’s giants.
Mainstream Media References
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CAF Online: Senegal and DR Congo progress as Group D concludes
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The Standard: AFCON 2025: Last-16 fixtures and latest group tables
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Olympics.com: DR Congo cruise into Round of 16 after win over Botswana
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