AFCON update: FCA trio in action
DR Congo and Tunisia drop points
First Team
28.12.2025, 10:26
The second matchday of this year’s Africa Cup of Nations saw FCA’s Samuel Essende (DR Congo), Elias Saad and Ismaël Gharbi (both Tunisia) all fail to win. Despite these slip-ups, both sides are well in contention for qualification for the round of 16.
Senegal 1-1 DR Congo
DR Congo and Senegal played out an intense 1-1 draw on Saturday afternoon, with the “Lions of Teranga” dominating the opening exchanges but failing to capitalise on the chances afforded to them by DR Congo. The momentum shifted after the break, with Congo taking the lead through Cédric Bakambu. A strong solo run from Ibrahim M’Baye set up ex-Bundesliga man Sadio Mané to net the equaliser.
Samuel Essende was an unused substitute in Tangier, while Nathanaël Mbuku, on loan at HSC Montpellier, was brought on in the 66th minute.
DR Congo could have booked their place in the round of 16 with a win, but will now have to wait until after their final group game against Botswana on Tuesday, December 30th. Steve Mounié and Benin are also in a good position to make it to the next round after their 1-0 win over Botswana. The striker, currently on loan at Alanyaspor, captained his side and assisted the winning goal.
Nigeria 3-2 Tunisia
The first half was fairly quiet up until Victor Osimhen struck just before the break to give the Super Eagles a 1-0 lead. Wilfred Ndidi and Ademola Lookman extended the lead to 3-0 in the second half, before goals from Montassar Talbi and Ali Abdi suggested a potential Tunisia comeback. A missed chance to equalise in stoppage time meant that Nigeria took all three points.
Elias Saad started the first group game, but had to watch this one from the bench on his 26th birthday. Ismaël Gharbi was brought on in the 75th minute and looked dangerous, but ultimately could not help his side complete the comeback.
Nigeria take top spot in the group and have secured qualification for the round of 16, while Tunisia have a crucial match coming up against Tanzania on Tuesday, December 30th.
