A moment of extra-time magic settles a tense North African–Central African duel in the AFCON 2025 Round of 16.
Rabat, Morocco. Algeria edged past a stubborn DR Congo side with a dramatic 1–0 victory after extra time in their AFCON 2025 Round of 16 encounter, to qualify to the quarter finals. The contest was defined by tactical discipline, defensive grit, and a single, decisive flash of brilliance deep into the second period of extra time.
For 118 minutes, the match unfolded as a battle of patience and precision. Algeria controlled possession in phases, probing with measured build-up play, while DR Congo defended with impressive organisation, closing passing lanes and frustrating the Desert Foxes with their compact shape and physical resilience. Chances were scarce, and when they did arrive, both goalkeepers stood firm, ensuring the deadlock remained intact through regulation time and much of extra time.
Just when penalties seemed inevitable, Algeria found their breakthrough.
In the 119th minute, substitute A. Boulbina etched his name into AFCON folklore. Collecting the ball at the edge of the penalty area after a half-cleared cross, Boulbina showed remarkable composure under pressure. With defenders converging and time running out, he took a deft touch to steady himself before unleashing a low, curling strike that kissed the inside of the far post and nestled into the net. The Congolese goalkeeper was left rooted, beaten more by the precision and timing than by sheer power.
The goal sparked wild celebrations among the Algerian bench and supporters, a release of tension after nearly two hours of relentless contest. For DR Congo, it was a cruel end to an otherwise disciplined and courageous performance, undone by a single lapse in the dying seconds.
Algeria saw out the remaining moments with calm authority, managing possession and denying their opponents any chance of a late response. The final whistle confirmed a hard-earned victory and underlined the Desert Foxes’ growing belief and tournament maturity.
As AFCON 2025 moves into its decisive stages, Algeria’s ability to remain patient and deliver in the most critical moments sends a clear message to the remaining contenders: this is a team built not just on talent, but on resilience, discipline, and the capacity for late, match-winning inspiration.