DR Congo Women held South Africa Women to a hard-fought 1-1 draw in the CAF Women’s Africa Cup of Nations on October 23, 2025. The result was a statement of intent from the Congolese side, who took on one of the tournament’s most decorated teams and earned a valuable point through a late surge of intensity.

The match unfolded as many expected in the early exchanges, with South Africa dominating possession and pinning DR Congo into their own half. The defending champions regularly exploited the flanks and tested the DR Congo defense with a series of crosses and cutbacks. The breakthrough arrived in the first half when the Banyana Banyana finally unlocked the backline with a well-timed run into the box and a first-time finish. It was the kind of clinical moment that has made South Africa perennial contenders.

DR Congo grow into the match

Rather than folding after conceding, DR Congo Women showed resilience and grew in confidence as the match wore on. Their midfielders began to win more second balls, and they started launching quick transitions to relieve the pressure. The equalizer came after a sustained spell of pressure, with a well-placed strike from close range sending the DR Congo supporters into celebration.

South Africa pushed forward in the final twenty minutes and carved out several half-chances, but DR Congo stood firm. Their goalkeeper made a crucial save with minutes remaining, ensuring her side walked away with a share of the spoils. It was a performance built on character, organization, and a clear game plan executed to near perfection.

What the draw means

For DR Congo Women, this point is a major confidence booster and demonstrates that they can mix it with the continent’s elite. For South Africa, the result is a slight stumble, but they remain strong contenders given their squad depth and experience. The draw sets up a fascinating rest of the group stage, with both teams aware that every point will matter in the race to reach the knockout rounds.