AFCON 2025: Adil Boulbina The Hero As Algeria Snatch Hard-Fought Win

Algeria secured a spot in the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) quarter-finals with a narrow 1-0 victory over DR Congo in extra time, marking their first return to this stage since their 2019 title win.

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The transition to the high-stakes knockout phase seemed to shift the tactical mindset of both teams. Despite their high-scoring group stage performances—totaling 12 goals combined—the match began with a cagey opening 15 minutes that saw zero shots on goal.

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The tempo eventually picked up around the 30-minute mark. Although Algeria dominated possession throughout the first half, it was DR Congo that threatened first. They created two significant scoring opportunities.

Beyond those two early openings, the first half was a dull stalemate. Both sides played with visible caution, appearing more concerned with avoiding a mistake than taking the risks necessary to advance.

However, the momentum shifted after the interval. DR Congo took control, intensifying their attack on the Algerian goal in an attempt to settle the match within ninety minutes.

They nearly broke the deadlock when the Algerian defense failed to deal with a corner, leaving Chancel Mbemba with a clear sight of goal, only for Hicham Boudaoui to produce a crucial, goal-saving block.

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As the match progressed, both managers turned to their substitutes to find a spark—most notably Algeria’s unexpected move to sub off Riyad Mahrez. Despite the changes, DR Congo remained the more dangerous side. Edo Kayembe nearly found a winner with a powerful long-range strike that forced a sharp save from Zidane.

Algeria’s response was muted; their best chance fell to Anis Hadj-Moussa, but his weak effort was comfortably handled by Lionel Mpasi. With neither team able to find a breakthrough, the contest moved into extra time.

During the 30 minutes of extra time, Algeria increased their intensity and nearly took the lead when Baghdad Bounedjah broke into the box, only to see his left-footed shot whistle just past the post. Moments later, Farès Chaïbi came close to clinching the win, but a spectacular reflex save by Mpasi seemed to guarantee a penalty shootout.

However, in the 119th minute, the deadlock was finally broken. Adil Boulbina charged down the left wing and struck a powerful shot into the far corner, devastating D.R. Congo and ending their hopes of reaching back-to-back AFCON quarter-finals.

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