Sadio Mane's equalizing goal secured a 1-1 draw for Senegal against the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in their Africa Cup of Nations Group D match on Saturday in Tangier, Morocco. Cedric Bakambu had put the DRC ahead just after the hour mark, but Mane, the Al-Nassr forward and Senegalese national team icon, responded shortly thereafter to level the score.

The draw leaves Senegal atop Group D with four points, ahead of the DRC on goal difference, with one match remaining in the group stage. Both teams are vying for a spot in the knockout stages of the tournament, which brings together the top footballing nations from across the African continent.

Earlier on Saturday, Benin secured a 1-0 victory against an unnamed opponent in Rabat, earning them their first win of the tournament and placing them in contention for qualification from Group D with three points. Benin's victory adds another layer of complexity to the group, setting the stage for a tense final round of matches.

The Africa Cup of Nations, also known as AFCON, is a biennial international men's football championship of Africa organized by the Confederation of African Football (CAF). It is the premier international football competition in Africa and has been held since 1957, showcasing the talent and passion for football that exists across the continent. The tournament not only provides a platform for national teams to compete but also serves as a unifying force, bringing together diverse cultures and communities through the shared love of the sport.

Senegal, the reigning AFCON champions from the 2022 edition held in Cameroon, entered this year's tournament as one of the favorites. Mane's crucial goal underscores his importance to the Senegalese squad and their aspirations to retain their title. The DRC, seeking to re-establish themselves as a force in African football, will look to their final group match to secure their passage to the next round.

Senegal will face Benin in their final group match on Tuesday, while the DRC will play an unnamed opponent. The results of these matches will determine the final standings in Group D and which teams will advance to the knockout stages of the Africa Cup of Nations.