Algeria Edge DR Congo with Last-Gasp Extra-Time Winner at AFCON
What a dramatic night in Rabat as Algeria managed to scrape past DR Congo in the last 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations, winning 1-0 after extra time. The game had all the tension you could hope for in a knockout fixture, with both sides locked in a fierce, tightly contested battle for 120 minutes. In the end, it was Adil Boulbina who provided the moment of magic, scoring a stunning strike in the 119th minute to send Algeria through to the quarter-finals.
From the opening whistle, the match was a chess game in motion. Both teams were cautious, with defences dominating and opportunities at a premium. Algeria, boasting a mix of experienced internationals and exciting young talent, held slightly more possession throughout, while DR Congo looked dangerous on the break but struggled to convert their chances. The Congolese goalkeeper, Lionel Mpasi, was kept busy, making several key saves to keep his side in the game.
Also Read:- Tempers flare as Will Jacks incident highlights England’s Ashes strain
- Duffman Says “Oh Yeah” One Last Time as The Simpsons Retires a Classic Character
The tension was palpable as the clock ticked into extra time. Substitutions proved crucial, with Boulbina coming off the bench to combine with Ramiz Zerrouki, who delivered a perfect pass to set up that decisive finish. The timing of the goal, so late in extra time, was heart-breaking for DR Congo, who had defended resolutely and seemed destined for a penalty shootout. For Algeria, it was a perfect moment, a reward for patience, tactical discipline, and seizing the single moment of opportunity.
This victory keeps Algeria’s perfect record in the tournament alive, having advanced from the group stage without dropping a point. Their defence, marshalled by goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of Zinedine Zidane, has been rock-solid, conceding just once so far. With Nigeria waiting in the quarter-finals, Algeria now faces a tougher test, as the Super Eagles have been scoring freely in this competition. DR Congo, meanwhile, will be left reflecting on missed opportunities and what could have been, particularly given their hopes of making history in AFCON after a strong showing in the World Cup qualifiers last year.
The match also highlights the increasing importance of squad depth in modern football tournaments. Substitutes like Boulbina can change the course of a game in seconds, underlining how even tight, low-scoring contests can hinge on moments of individual brilliance. For fans across Africa, the drama of this fixture has reinforced why AFCON is such a compelling tournament, full of passion, tension, and late-night heroics.
Algeria now moves forward with momentum and confidence, while DR Congo exits, their campaign over but their efforts not without merit. It was a night that showcased tactical discipline, resilience, and ultimately, the heartbreak and euphoria that make knockout football so captivating.
Read More:
0 Comments