Algeria have booked a highly anticipated quarter-final clash with the Super Eagles of Nigeria after edging past the Democratic Republic of Congo 1–0 after extra time in a tense Africa Cup of Nations Round of 16 encounter.
The Desert Foxes, champions in 2019, secured their first AFCON quarter-final appearance since lifting the trophy thanks to a dramatic 119th-minute strike from Adil Boulbina, setting the stage for one of the tournament’s most mouth-watering last-eight fixtures against Nigeria.
Algeria Earn Nigeria Date the Hard Way
With knockout tension evident from the opening exchanges, both sides approached the contest cautiously, producing a shot-shy first quarter despite their attacking exploits in the group stage.
DR Congo threatened first, forcing Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane into action when Cédric Bakambu saw his effort turned around the post, before Axel Tuanzebe narrowly missed the target from the resulting corner.
Algeria absorbed pressure for long spells, knowing victory would secure a showdown with Nigeria, while DR Congo pushed hard to force a breakthrough.
Desert Foxes Survive Congo Pressure
After the interval, DR Congo appeared determined to decide the tie in regulation time. Chancel Mbemba came close after Algeria failed to clear a corner, but a crucial block from Hicham Boudaoui kept the scores level.
Algeria struggled to impose themselves in open play, even withdrawing Riyad Mahrez in search of fresh ideas, while DR Congo continued to press, with Edo Kayembe’s long-range drive testing Zidane once more.
Late Heroics Seal Nigeria Quarter-final
Extra time saw Algeria raise their intensity, sensing the opportunity to progress. Baghdad Bounedjah fired narrowly wide, while Farès Chaïbi was denied by a superb save from Lionel Mpasi, as the match seemed destined for penalties.
However, in the 119th minute, Algeria found their moment. Adil Boulbina surged down the left flank and unleashed a thunderous strike into the far corner, sealing victory and confirming a quarter-final date with the Super Eagles of Nigeria.
What Awaits Nigeria
The dramatic win sends Algeria into a blockbuster quarter-final against an in-form Nigeria side that has swept aside all opposition so far. With both nations among Africa’s traditional heavyweights, the clash promises a fierce battle for a semi-final place as the AFCON knockout drama intensifies.
