One Moment of Magic Sends Algeria Into AFCON Quarterfinals

A night ruled by discipline and patience

Defensive discipline dominated the Africa Cup of Nations round of 16 clash between Algeria and DR Congo in Rabat. From the opening whistle, both teams showed caution, structure and respect for the stakes, resulting in a tense and tightly controlled contest.

Clear chances were rare across 90 minutes. Algeria saw more of the ball and tried to dictate the tempo, but DR Congo stayed compact and organised, refusing to leave space between the lines. Neither side was willing to overcommit, knowing a single mistake could decide the tie.

As a result, the match drifted into extra time after a scoreless draw, with penalties beginning to feel inevitable.

Goalkeepers rise as chances remain scarce

As fatigue crept in and spaces slowly opened, the goalkeepers stepped into the spotlight. DR Congo’s Lionel M’Pasi produced a string of outstanding saves, denying efforts from Farès Chaïbi, Mohamed Amoura and Anis Hadj Moussa to keep his side alive.

At the other end, Algeria’s Anthony Mandrea was calm and reliable whenever called upon. Congo offered little in attack, but Mandrea dealt comfortably with the rare moments of danger, ensuring Algeria were never punished on the counter.

Despite the growing tension, neither side could find a way through as the match entered the second period of extra time.

Mahrez substitution adds to the drama

Midway through the second half, Algeria head coach Vladimir Petković made a bold and controversial decision by withdrawing captain Riyad Mahrez. The move surprised many, especially as Algeria struggled to unlock Congo’s deep defensive block.

Without their talisman, Algeria searched for creativity but continued to run into a wall of red shirts. The longer the stalemate continued, the louder the nerves grew inside the stadium.

Late hero breaks Congolese hearts

Just when penalties seemed unavoidable, Algeria finally found their breakthrough. In the 119th minute, 22-year-old Adil Boulbina stepped up with a moment of composure and quality, firing home the decisive goal.

Rabat erupted as flares lit up the stands and Algerian players collapsed in celebration. DR Congo were left devastated, their resistance ended in the cruelest possible fashion.

Algeria march on with a dramatic 1-0 victory, proving once again that in knockout football, one moment is all it takes.