Rabat, Morocco – Algeria secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo (DRC) in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025 last-16 round thanks to a stunning extra-time strike from substitute Adil Boulbina. The win sets up a highly anticipated quarterfinal clash with Nigeria in Marrakesh on Saturday.

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Boulbina’s Extra-Time Heroics

With the game heading towards a penalty shootout, Algeria’s 22-year-old forward Boulbina, who plays for Al-Duhail in Qatar, was released on the left in the 119th minute. He drove into the DRC penalty area and unleashed a thunderous strike that beat goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi, sparking wild celebrations among the 18,837 fans at Moulay El Hassan Stadium.

Boulbina’s goal capped a tense match in which both sides struggled to convert their attacking chances. Algerian captain Riyad Mahrez and young talent Ibrahim Maza were unable to influence the scoreline during regulation time.

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Match Summary

• DR Congo Threats: Axel Tuanzebe headed narrowly wide from a corner, and Edo Kaymbe forced a smart save from Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane.
• Algeria Pressure: Fares Chaibi and Baghdad Bounedjah tested Mpasi in extra time before the decisive combination of Ramiz Zerrouki and Boulbina produced the winner.
• Substitutes Shine: Both Zerrouki and Boulbina came off the bench and played pivotal roles in the breakthrough goal.

Despite a cautious display in regulation time, Algeria’s persistence paid off, with Boulbina emerging as the hero.

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Road Ahead: Algeria vs Nigeria

The victory keeps Algeria’s hopes alive for a third AFCON title, following their 2019 triumph. They now face Victor Osimhen’s Nigeria in the quarterfinals. The Super Eagles previously defeated the Leopards in a World Cup qualifying playoff in November, adding extra intrigue to the matchup.

For DR Congo, the loss is a setback in AFCON 2025, though they still have a chance to qualify for the 2026 World Cup intercontinental playoff against either New Caledonia or Jamaica in March.