Algeria secured a 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo in the Africa Cup of Nations last-16 tie, thanks to a late extra-time goal.
On January 6, 2026, at the Moulay El Hassan Stadium in Rabat, Algeria edged out DR Congo 1-0 in a tense Africa Cup of Nations last-16 match that went into extra time. Substitute Adil Boulbina scored the decisive goal in the 119th minute, unleashing a powerful strike into the net after a pass from Ramiz Zerrouki. The 18,837 spectators, mostly backing the Algerians, erupted in celebration as the 2019 champions advanced.
The game, despite featuring stars like Algeria's Riyad Mahrez and Ibrahim Maza, lacked quality in the final third. Neither side created many clear chances in regular time: DR Congo's Axel Tuanzebe headed just wide from a corner, Maza shot narrowly past, and Edo Kayembe forced a save from goalkeeper Luca Zidane. In extra time, Algeria ramped up pressure, with Lionel Mpasi saving efforts from Fares Chaibi and Baghdad Bounedjah before Boulbina's moment of brilliance.
Algeria, who topped their group unbeaten, now face Victor Osimhen's Nigeria in the quarterfinals in Marrakesh on Saturday, a rematch potential after DR Congo's earlier penalty win over the Super Eagles in World Cup qualifying. The Leopards, with ambitions dashed, turn to a March intercontinental play-off against New Caledonia or Jamaica for a World Cup spot since 1974. This result keeps Algeria's dream alive for a third continental title.
