Algeria booked their place in the AFCON 2025 quarter-finals with a dramatic 1–0 extra-time victory over DR Congo on Tuesday, thanks to a late strike from substitute Adil Boulbina.
Match Highlight
With penalties looming, Boulbina delivered the decisive moment a minute from the end of extra time. Cutting inside from the left, he unleashed a dipping shot that clipped the underside of the crossbar before nestling in the net, triggering wild celebrations among the Algerian players and fans.
Algeria dominated the early exchanges and applied sustained pressure. Attacking fullback Rafik Belghali was influential down the right flank, with his dangerous cross in the 21st minute nearly resulting in an own goal as DR Congo captain Chancel Mbemba narrowly avoided turning the ball into his own net.
Despite spending long periods defending, DR Congo had their moments. Cedric Bakambu broke clear midway through the first half and forced a save from goalkeeper Luca Zidane. From the resulting corner, Axel Tuanzebe headed just wide, coming close to giving the Congolese a surprise lead.
Chances were limited after the break. Riyad Mahrez sent a free kick narrowly over the bar before being substituted. As Algeria pushed harder late on, DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced a series of smart saves to deny Mohamed Amoura and Anis Hadj Moussa, keeping the contest finely balanced.
Looking Ahead
Boulbina’s late heroics finally ended DR Congo’s resistance and set up a highly anticipated quarter-final showdown against Nigeria. The tie will be played in Marrakesh on Saturday, with a place in the semi-finals at stake.
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