Algeria edge DR Congo to book Quarterfinal spot
by Collins Okinyo
Algeria secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over DR Congo in the final minutes of extra time to book their spot in the Africa Cup of Nations 2025 quarterfinals. The match, played at Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan in Rabat, remained goalless for 118 minutes before Adil Boulbina delivered the decisive goal.
The winning goal came in the 119th minute, when Boulbina received a pass from Ramiz Zerrouki on the left side of the box. The Algerian forward took a quick touch and fired a right-footed shot into the top right corner, beating the goalkeeper with precision and composure.
Algeria controlled much of the game with 57% possession, 12 total shots and 6 on target, while completing 458 passes at 85% accuracy.
DR Congo managed 43% possession, 6 shots with 2 on target, and 336 passes at 84% accuracy.
Both sides failed to create clear big chances, but Algeria’s persistence eventually broke through.
The match was physical, with Algeria committing 17 fouls compared to DR Congo’s 24, while corners were slightly in DR Congo’s favor at 6 to 4.
DR Congo had defended resolutely throughout the match, frustrating Algeria’s attacking efforts and forcing the game into extra time.
But Algeria’s dominance in possession and shot creation finally paid off in the final moments, sending their fans into celebration and ending DR Congo’s campaign.
With this win, Algeria advances to the quarterfinals, keeping alive their hopes of lifting the continental trophy for the third time.
They will now face Nigeria on January 10 at 5:00 p.m. at Stade de Marrakech, in what promises to be one of the standout matches of the tournament, as both teams head into the clash on a perfect run, having won all their matches so far.
