Algeria Book Nigeria Rematch After Extra-Time Win Over DR Congo
Adil Boulbina struck a dramatic 119th-minute winner as Algeria defeated DR Congo 1–0 after extra time to book their place in the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) and set up a mouth-watering clash with Nigeria.
The late goal sent the Desert Foxes into the last eight for the first time since lifting the trophy in 2019 and confirmed a repeat of the AFCON 2019 semi-final against the Super Eagles.
With the tournament now at the knockout stage, both teams approached the round-of-16 tie with caution. Despite their attacking displays during the group phase, Algeria and DR Congo failed to register a shot in the opening 15 minutes of a tense and evenly contested encounter.
DR Congo created the first clear chances shortly before the half-hour mark. Cédric Bakambu forced Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane into a fine save, while Axel Tuanzebe headed narrowly wide from the resulting corner.
The first half ended with little attacking threat from either side as both teams remained disciplined at the back. After the restart, DR Congo increased the pressure, with Chancel Mbemba going close from a corner before Hicham Boudaoui produced a vital block inside the box.
Algeria tried to change the flow of the game with substitutions, including the withdrawal of captain Riyad Mahrez, but DR Congo continued to look more dangerous. Edo Kayembe tested Zidane with a powerful long-range effort, while the North Africans struggled to carve out clear chances in open play.
Anis Hadj-Moussa briefly threatened for Algeria, but his effort was comfortably saved by DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi as the match moved into extra time.
Algeria showed greater urgency during the additional 30 minutes. Baghdad Bounedjah went close after breaking into the area but dragged his shot wide, while Mpasi produced an excellent reflex save to deny Farès Chaïbi.
Just as the contest appeared headed for penalties, Boulbina delivered the decisive moment. Bursting down the left flank, he fired a fierce strike into the far corner in the 119th minute to seal victory for Algeria and end DR Congo’s hopes of reaching successive AFCON quarter-finals.
Algeria will now face Nigeria’s Super Eagles in the quarter-finals in Marrakech on Saturday, 10 January, in a rematch of their AFCON 2019 semi-final, which the Desert Foxes won on their way to lifting the title.
