Adil Boulbina’s dramatic 118th-minute strike propelled Algeria into the AFCON 2025 quarter-finals, securing a 1–0 victory over DR Congo.
The two sides were deadlocked at 0–0 after 90 minutes in Rabat, with both teams matching each other in a tense, tightly contested encounter.
With penalties looming, Boulbina made the decisive breakthrough shortly after coming on, curling a superb right-footed shot past goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi-Nzau.
The goal separated two disciplined and well-organised sides that had shown resilience throughout regulation and extra time.
Algeria dominated early possession but struggled to create clear-cut opportunities against a compact Congolese defence.
DR Congo threatened on the counter, with Cedric Bakambu forcing a fine save from Luca Zidane and later heading narrowly wide.
Algeria responded before halftime through Ibrahim Maza, but his low effort just missed the target.
The second half mirrored the first, with Mohamed Amoura missing a clear chance and Zineddine Belaid blocking Fiston Mayele in a crucial defensive intervention.
In extra time, Mpasi-Nzau produced brilliant saves to deny Fares Chaibi and Baghdad Bounedjah.
Boulbina’s late moment of brilliance finally broke the stalemate, sending Algerian fans into celebration.
The substitute’s instant impact off the bench showcased his composure, confidence, and quality at a crucial moment, earning him Man-of-the-Match honours.
“This is a team effort. I came on late and scored, but it’s about all of us. We are thrilled and will keep pushing forward in the tournament,” Boulbina said.
Algeria will now face Nigeria in the quarter-finals in Marrakech on Saturday, as Les Fennecs aim to maintain their momentum and compete for the title.