AFCON 2025: Algeria edge DR Congo to book Super Eagles showdown
Algeria will face Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the quarterfinals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations after grinding out a 1-0 extra-time victory over DR Congo in their Round of 16 encounter in Rabat on Tuesday.
The Desert Warriors were pushed to the limit by a disciplined Congolese side, but eventually found a breakthrough late in extra time as Adil Boulbina struck decisively to seal progression and set up a heavyweight clash with Eric Chelle’s Nigeria.
Goalless but competitive first-half
Algeria began assertively and nearly took an early lead when a perfectly weighted pass released Riyad Mahrez, but the winger failed to control at the crucial moment.
DR Congo responded in the 26th minute through Axel Tuanzebe, whose header from a corner drifted off target.
Ibrahim Maza came closest to breaking the deadlock just before the break, flashing a shot narrowly wide as both teams went into halftime locked at 0-0.
Tactical chess in regulation time
The second half followed a similar pattern, with Algeria enjoying more possession but struggling to create clear-cut chances.
DR Congo remained compact and dangerous on the counter, though they too lacked cutting edge in the final third.
Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic reshuffled his side in the 70th minute, withdrawing Riyad Mahrez and Rayan Ait-Nouri for Anis Hadj Moussa and Zineddine Belaid.
DR Congo responded with changes of their own as Edo Kayembe and Gaël Kakuta entered the fray.
Late drama followed when DR Congo nearly stole it at the end of normal time, but Abdelli’s goal-line header denied Mayele and forced extra time.
Boulbina delivers in extra time
Algeria dominated possession in extra time and went close on several occasions, with goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi producing key saves to deny Farès Chaïbi and Baghdad Bounedjah.
As penalties loomed, Adil Boulbina produced a moment of quality, unleashing a powerful strike into the top corner in the dying minutes to decide the contest.
The win sends Algeria into the quarterfinals, where they will meet Nigeria in what promises to be one of the tournament’s marquee fixtures.
