Botswana vs DR Congo prediction 30.12.2025 | AFCON

Botswana’s campaign at AFCON 2025 has been challenging. In their opener, they were comfortably beaten 3-0 by Senegal, failing to register a single shot on target and surrendering 17 efforts against them - the most any side has faced in an AFCON match since at least 2010. 

Botswana then lost 1-0 to Benin, extending their run to four consecutive AFCON losses, with no goals scored and multiple defensive frailties exposed. Their key goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko had an outstanding individual performance in the Senegal defeat, making 14 saves, a tournament high, but this defensive heroism has not yielded points. Botswana’s recent overall form includes a mix of losses and draws from 2025 competitive fixtures, producing an average of 0.70 points per game, scoring under one goal per match while conceding at a rate above 1.6 goals. 

Head coach management and squad fitness appear stable but with limited depth and frontline productivity.

DR Congo’s campaign has been comparatively productive. Their narrow 1-0 win over Benin was followed by an impressive 1-1 draw with one of the tournament favourites Senegal, demonstrating competitive strength against one of Africa’s top national teams. Overall, the Leopards have shown consistency; they have registered six wins, one draw and three losses across their last 10 matches, scoring around 1.4 goals per game while conceding roughly one goal, highlighting a relatively solid defensive unit. 

Notably, Yoane Wissa was omitted from the AFCON squad to manage fitness and focus on club commitments and upcoming World Cup playoff preparations, which could impact attacking options. However, DR Congo still possesses proven goalscorers such as Théo Bongonda and Cédric Bakambu, who have contributed in key group matches.