DR Congo vs Mali prediction, H2H and probable lineups - 5 June 2025
One of this week’s friendlies will take place on Thursday at the Stade de la Source in Orléans, where DR Congo will face Mali. I’m offering a bet on the outcome of this clash with strong chances for success.
Match preview
The Democratic Republic of Congo national team continues its steady progress and is confidently pushing for a place at the 2026 World Cup. In March, the squad showed maturity and composure, first taking care of South Sudan (1-0), then dispatching a tougher Mauritania side (2-0). This run is clear proof that Sébastien Desabre’s men are in good form and are evolving into an increasingly balanced unit.
DR Congo’s main strength remains their reliable defense, which has kept clean sheets in their last two outings. Special mention goes to the discipline in central areas and an improved attacking conversion rate—the team has finally learned to see out results in matches where they previously dropped points.
On paper, Mali looks much stronger than their current results suggest. With the likes of Yves Bissouma, Nene Dorgeles, and El Bilal Touré, the squad should be performing at a higher level. However, the Eagles continue to stall—in their last outing, for example, they failed to break down the Central African Republic (0-0). The lack of a clear attacking blueprint is preventing the team from unlocking its stars’ potential.
In recent years, Mali have become a team that relies heavily on defensive solidity—hence the run of low-scoring and clean-sheet matches. However, without enough attacking edge, it will be tough to gain an advantage even in a friendly against a well-organized DR Congo side.
Probable lineups
- DR Congo: Berto, Kalulu, Mbemba, Inonga, Masuaku, Moutoussamy, Kayembe, Bongonda, Pickel, Elia, Essende
- Mali: Djigui Diarra; Diakité, Abdoulaye Diaby, Mamadou Fofana; Sinayoko, Dieng, Amadou Camara, Doucouré; Bissouma, Djenepo, El Bilal Touré
Match facts and head-to-head
- DR Congo are unbeaten in four consecutive matches.
- Nine of Mali’s last nine matches have seen at least one side keep a clean sheet.
- The teams have not met in an official match since 2017.
Prediction
Both sides are undergoing a rebuilding phase, but it’s DR Congo who have shown more balance and tactical direction. Mali still suffers from a disconnect between their squad and their performances, as well as a lack of attacking ideas. Our bet for this match: "Both teams to score – No" at odds of 1.70.
