Group D promises to deliver an exciting spectacle, with reigning champions Senegal entering as the clear favourites. Featuring star players who shine both in Africa and across Europe, Senegal will be looking to defend their crown and add another chapter to their success story. DR Congo, with its proud footballing history, is known for its physical strength and passion, qualities that make them a formidable opponent for any team. Benin has become a regular presence at major tournaments in recent years and will once again aim to prove it belongs at this level. Botswana, the underdog in this group, hopes to spring a surprise and fight its way into the knockout stage.
The mix of tournament experience and ambitious challengers makes Group D one where every match could be decisive. Below you will find the current standings, full match schedule and more information about the participating teams.
Group D Standings
| Land | PTS | G | W | D | L | GD |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|---|
 Senegal | 7 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | +6 |
 DR Congo | 7 | 3 | 2 | 1 | 0 | +4 |
 Benin | 3 | 3 | 1 | 0 | 2 | -3 |
 Botswana | 0 | 3 | 0 | 0 | 3 | -7 |
Group D Match Schedule
All kick-off times are Morocco (WET+1).
Tuesday 23 December 2025
| DR Congo Benin | 1 0 |
| Senegal Botswana | 3 0 |
Saturday 27 December 2025
| Benin Botswana | 1 0 |
| Senegal DR Congo | 1 1 |
Tuesday 30 December 2025
| Botswana DR Congo | 0 3 |
| Benin Senegal | 0 3 |
Group D Teams
Senegal
Senegal enters AFCON 2025 as one of the top favorites, following their historic title win in 2021. With an unbeaten qualifying campaign and a blend of experience stars and emerging talent, coach Pape Thiaw’s squad is ready to reaffirm its dominance on the African stage.
DR Congo
The Leopards of DR Congo return to the Africa Cup with a proud history and ambitions of shining once again. Under coach Sébastien Desabre, the team combines experience with resilience, focusing on quick transitions and attacking strength.
Benin
Benin heads back to the continental stage aiming to surprise again, after their impressive quarter-final run in 2019. Under the guidance of coach Gernot Rohr, the Cheetahs are ready to test themselves against Africa’s elite once more.
Botswana
Botswana, known as “The Zebras”, returns as a underdog to the AFCON stage after their debut in 2012, bringing new hope following a strong qualifying campaign. Led by coach Morena Ramoreboli and with striker Tumisang Orebonye, who boasts experience at the highest African level, they will be looking to spring surprises once again.
Group D Stadiums
Stade Ibn Batutta
- Location: Tanier
- Capacity: 75,600
- Home team: Ittihad Tanger
Stade Al Barid
- Location: Rabat
- Capacity: 18,000
- Home team: UTS
Stade Olympique de Rabat
- Location: Rabat
- Capacity: 21,000
- Home team: Ateletiek
Group D Host Cities
Tangier
Tangier, a historic port city in northern Morocco, lies at the meeting point of the Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea. With just over one million inhabitants, Tangier is renowned for its rich culture, strategic location, and vibrant trading history. Its cosmopolitan charm and dynamic atmosphere make it a fitting host city for the Africa Cup of Nations 2025.
Rabat
Rabat, Morocco’s capital and one of the country’s four imperial cities, is known for its rich historical heritage and distinctive atmosphere. With landmarks such as the Mausoleum of Mohammed V and the remains of ancient mosques, the city offers a fascinating glimpse into Morocco’s history and culture.