Algeria vs DR Congo: Epic 1-0 ET Win Sends Algeria Through

Boulbina’s Extra-Time Heroics Fire Algeria into Afcon Quarter-Finals

In a nail-biting encounter that stretched deep into extra time, Algeria (Algeria vs DR Congo) secured a dramatic 1-0 victory over DR Congo to advance to the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon). The match, played in Rabat, was decided by a moment of pure brilliance from substitute Adil Boulbina, whose stunning strike in the 119th minute shattered Congolese resistance and sent the Algerian fans into raptures.

The goal was a masterpiece of timing and technique. Fellow substitute Ramiz Zerrouki played a precise pass down the left channel, releasing Boulbina into space. The attacker outpaced a fatigued Aaron Wan-Bissaka, cut inside onto his right foot, and unleashed a ferocious drive that curled over goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi and crashed in off the underside of the crossbar. It was a finish worthy of winning any contest, especially one so tightly contested.

For DR Congo, the result was a cruel blow. The Leopards had battled valiantly throughout an evenly matched affair, largely neutralizing Algeria’s attacking threats and appearing destined for a penalty shootout. Their search for a first-ever victory over Algeria continues, and this defeat will sting after a performance that deserved more. The Central Africans defended resolutely and competed with heart, but were ultimately undone by a moment of individual excellence.

The game itself was a tactical battle, with both defenses firmly on top. Clear chances were at a premium, making Boulbina’s late intervention all the more pivotal. Adding to the narrative, French football legend Zinedine Zidane was once again in the stands, watching his son, goalkeeper Luca Zidane, secure a fourth clean sheet of the tournament for Les Fennecs. This defensive solidity has been the cornerstone of Algeria’s campaign thus far.

Algeria, the 2019 Afcon champions, now march on to a tantalizing quarter-final clash against Nigeria in Marrakesh this Saturday (16:00 GMT). The Super Eagles have been free-scoring in the tournament, but will face a stern test against an Algerian side brimming with confidence and defensive discipline. Coach Djamel Belmadi will believe his team’s organized rearguard, marshaled by the impressive Zidane, can stifle the Nigerian attack.

The victory underscores Algeria’s pedigree as tournament specialists. Their ability to grind out results, even when not at their fluent best, makes them a formidable opponent. For DR Congo, it’s a case of so near yet so far, and they will rue their inability to find a breakthrough against a resolute Algerian backline.

As the Afcon drama continues, all eyes will turn to Marrakesh for what promises to be a thrilling encounter between two African giants. Algeria has announced itself as a serious contender, and with momentum and a hero in Boulbina, they will fancy their chances of going all the way.

Hyperlinks Included in the Article (Anchor Text Examples):

• Africa Cup of Nations (Afcon) linked to the official CAF website.
• DR Congo national team linked to their Wikipedia page.
• Algeria national football team linked to their Wikipedia page.
• Nigeria national football team linked to their Wikipedia page.
• Marrakesh linked to a travel guide.
• Luca Zidane linked to his player profile.
• Djamel Belmadi linked to his Wikipedia page.