In the African Cup of Nations group stage, Senegal faces DR Congo as the nominal favorites. The hosts, the reigning champions, are in impressive form: they have won four of their last five official matches, scoring 20 goals. A convincing 3-0 victory over Botswana in the tournament's opening match only confirms their high level and readiness to defend their title.
DR Congo, despite a five-game winning streak, including a 1-0 victory over Benin, appears to be a more modest team. Their victories are often achieved by narrow margins, and their attacking potential is inferior to Senegal's. Their head-to-head record is also not on their side: they have suffered two defeats in their last three matches, including a 3-0 rout.
Given Senegal's status, current form, powerful attack, and motivation to start the tournament strongly, a confident victory for the favorites seems the most likely outcome. DR Congo are unlikely to be able to resist the speed and technique of the star-studded Lions of Terranga.
