30 Dec 2025

Botswana's participation at the Africa Cup Of Nations has ended in disappointment after a 3-0 defeat to the Democratic Republic of Congo on Tuesday night.

The result means that the Zebras have finished at the bottom of Group D after losing all their three matches without scoring a single goal and conceding seven. They have also extended their all time losing streak at the tournament to six matches in a row.

The Leopards dominated possession in the early stages of first half at the Stade El Barid in Rabat, Morocco, but missed good opportunities. Zebras goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko also frustrated them by continuing with his string of fine saves at the tournament.

The Leopards eventually took the lead through Nathaniel Mbuku in the 30th minute, with the striker bundling home from close range after connecting with a cheeky backheel from Gael Kakuta. Kakuta then doubled the Leopards lead with a well-taken spotkick in the 40th minute after defender Thabo Leinanyane handled while challenging for the ball inside the 18-yard area. 

DRC continued with their dominance after the break and Kakuta extended their lead with his second of the match in the 59th minute. Fiston Mayele found the back of the net three minutes later, but the goal was disallowed after VAR intervention, with video replays showing that the ball came off the striker's arm before going into the net.

Tumisang Orebonye, on as a second half substitute, blazed a good opportunity over the posts in stoppage time. BOPA