Algeria needed a dramatic late strike in extra time to edge past the Democratic Republic of Congo and book their place in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations.
The Desert Foxes recalled goalkeeper Luca Zidane alongside Riyad Mahrez and Mohamed Amoura, who had been rested during last week’s 3–1 win over Equatorial Guinea. For the Leopards, Cedrick Bakambu once again spearheaded the attack after their emphatic 3–0 victory over Botswana in the final group match.
Both sides began at a brisk tempo, sharing possession evenly in the opening 15 minutes, though clear chances were limited. Congo came closest midway through the first half when Bakambu burst into the area following a powerful solo run, only for Zidane to produce an excellent save to deny him. Axel Tuanzebe then threatened with a towering header that drifted narrowly over the bar.
The Leopards finished the first half strongly, dominating possession in the Algerian half and stretching the defence, with Bakambu proving a constant menace. However, they were unable to turn their pressure into a breakthrough before the interval.
Algeria suffered a setback early in the second half when influential midfielder Ismaël Bennacer was forced off through injury, with Himad Abdelli introduced in his place. The pace dropped noticeably thereafter, with Algeria enjoying more of the ball but struggling to create openings from open play. Their best moments came from set pieces, none of which seriously tested Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi-Nzau.
After a largely quiet second period, Algeria nearly settled the contest in the 83rd minute when Ibrahim Maza met a cross with a header that flashed just wide of the post. With no goals in regulation time, the match headed into extra time.
The decisive moment finally arrived in the 118th minute. Adil Boulbina collected a pass from Ramiz Zerrouki, cut inside from the edge of the area and unleashed a stunning strike into the top corner, sealing a hard-fought victory and sending Algeria through to the AFCON quarter-finals.