By Francis Onyach - Reporter
Kenya, 6 January 2026 - In a dramatic Round of 16 clash at the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday, Algeria edged out the Democratic Republic of Congo 1-0 thanks to a late extra-time strike from Adil Boulbina, crushing the Leopards’ hopes and sending Algerian fans into raptures at the Stade Prince Moulay Al Hassan in Rabat.
After a cagey and tightly contested 90 minutes that produced few clear scoring opportunities and ended goalless, both teams battled through extra time with everything on the line. DR Congo’s defence stood firm throughout regular time, frustrating an Algerian side that enjoyed more possession and territory but failed to find a way through.
Keepers on both sides were called into action, with Congo’s Lionel M’Pasi making important saves to keep his team in the match early on.
The decisive moment finally arrived deep into extra time. In the 119th minute, substitute Adil Boulbina, introduced to add attacking spark, produced a moment of individual brilliance to find the back of the net and spark wild celebrations among the Desert Warriors’ supporters.
His strike proved to be the difference, crushing DR Congo’s hopes of advancing and booking Algeria’s place in the AFCON quarter-finals.
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The win sets up an intriguing last-eight showdown for Algeria against Nigeria’s Super Eagles, continuing their unbeaten run in the tournament.
For DR Congo, the defeat is heartbreaking after a disciplined and resilient display that ultimately fell just short.
Adil Boulbina’s Extra-Time Heroics Break DR Congo Hearts in AFCON Thriller
Desert Warriors Beat Leopards 1-0, Set Up AFCON Quarter-Final Against Nigeria
