Adil Boulbina struck deep into extra time to seal a dramatic victory for Algeria, breaking DR Congo’s resistance and booking Les Fennecs a place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco.
In a tense and tightly contested encounter in Rabat, it took a moment of individual brilliance from the substitute to finally separate the two sides. With penalties looming, Boulbina produced a decisive flash of quality to end DR Congo’s hopes and extend Algeria’s strong tournament momentum.
A Goal Worthy of Winning Any Match
The decisive moment came when Ramiz Zerrouki, also introduced from the bench, released Boulbina down the left flank. Showing impressive pace and composure, the winger surged past a visibly tiring Aaron Wan-Bissaka, cut sharply back inside and unleashed a fierce right-footed strike.
The effort soared over goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, kissed the underside of the crossbar and nestled into the net, sparking jubilant celebrations among Algeria’s players and supporters. It was the only goal of the game — and one that proved enough.
DR Congo Left Heartbroken After Even Contest
The result was particularly cruel on DR Congo, who matched Algeria throughout a contest dominated by disciplined defending and limited clear-cut chances. Having pushed the game into extra time, the Leopards looked destined for a penalty shootout before Boulbina’s late intervention.
Despite the defeat, Sebastien Desabre’s side showed resilience and organisation, reinforcing their growing reputation after recent successes on the international stage.
Zidane Watches as Algeria’s Defence Holds Firm Again
The match also marked another clean sheet for goalkeeper Luca Zidane, watched on from the stands by his father, France legend Zinedine Zidane, who has been a regular presence at Afcon 2025.
Algeria’s defensive solidity has been a defining feature of their campaign. The 2019 champions have conceded very few chances, and their ability to control games without dominating possession has made them difficult opponents.
That defensive strength will be vital in the quarter-finals, where Algeria face Nigeria — the tournament’s most prolific attacking side — in Marrakesh on Saturday (16:00 GMT).
Early Physical Battle Sets the Tone
The opening stages at the Stade Moulay El Hassan were scrappy and physical, with frequent interruptions as both teams fought aggressively for control. Referee Mohamed Eid Mansour allowed play to flow, keeping his cards in his pocket despite several borderline challenges.
The first real scare came when former Newcastle defender Chancel Mbemba nearly turned the ball into his own net following a dangerous low cross from energetic full-back Rafik Belghali, who supported Riyad Mahrez effectively on the right wing.
Moments later, Cedric Bakambu broke clear after winning a header on the halfway line, but opted to shoot across goal rather than square for a team-mate — a decision that allowed Zidane to intervene.
Chances Remain Scarce as Defences Dominate
Both goalkeepers were called into action sporadically. From a corner, Axel Tuanzebe headed narrowly wide for DR Congo, while Algeria struggled to convert promising build-up play into clear opportunities.
The second half saw a setback for Algeria when Ismael Bennacer was forced off through injury, prompting a series of tactical changes from both benches. Notably, Mahrez, Algeria’s record Afcon scorer, was withdrawn as coach Vladimir Petkovic searched for a breakthrough.
Substitute Anis Hadj Moussa tested Mpasi with a powerful drive through a crowded penalty area, while the Congolese keeper also denied Mohamed Amoura, Africa’s leading World Cup qualifying scorer, with a sharp save.
Extra Time Drama Before the Decisive Moment
DR Congo nearly won it in stoppage time when Zineddine Belaid produced a heroic defensive header to deny Fiston Mayele a simple tap-in, forcing the game into extra time.
As fatigue set in, Mpasi made two excellent low saves in quick succession to keep out Fares Chaibi and Baghdad Bounedjah, seemingly dragging his side towards penalties — until Boulbina struck.
Algeria Regain Tournament Momentum Under Petkovic
After failing to progress from the group stage at the previous two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments, Algeria appear revitalised under Bosnian coach Vladimir Petkovic, who has instilled balance, patience and defensive resilience into a talented squad.
Driven forward by passionate Algerian supporters, Les Fennecs now prepare for a major test against Nigeria, who finished the group stage with a perfect record and dismantled Mozambique 4-0 in the last 16.
With two unbeaten heavyweights colliding, Algeria will need every ounce of their defensive stubbornness — and perhaps another moment of magic — to continue their Afcon 2025 journey.
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