Algeria booked their place in the Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals on Tuesday night after a tense and dramatic 1–0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo in Rabat, decided deep into extra time.
The match tested the nerves of Algerian supporters for nearly two hours before winger Adil Boulbina finally broke the deadlock in the 119th minute. His late strike sent the Fennec Foxes through and ended Congo’s tournament hopes, triggering wild celebrations across the white and green filled stands.
The contest was fiercely competitive throughout. Congo entered the encounter with confidence and resilience, matching Algeria for long spells in a physically demanding game. However, Algeria’s dominance in possession and sustained attacking pressure repeatedly forced Congolese defenders into last ditch interventions.
A striking moment off the pitch came from well known Congolese supporter Michel Nkuka Mboladinga, who once again captured attention with his symbolic tribute. Standing on a pedestal, he raised his right hand at kickoff, holding the pose in honour of slain independence hero Patrice Lumumba until halftime. He briefly lowered his arm to applaud fellow supporters before resuming the stance for the second half and extra time. At the final whistle, emotion overtook him as tears marked Congo’s exit.
Despite the disappointment, the Leopards can quickly turn their focus to the World Cup playoff stage. Congo will face either New Caledonia or Jamaica in March, with a place at the global tournament at stake.
For Algeria, the journey continues. The North Africans will now face Nigeria in Marrakech on Saturday, setting up a heavyweight quarterfinal clash after the Super Eagles advanced emphatically with a 4–0 victory over Mozambique.
The stage is set for a high stakes encounter as two of Africa’s football powerhouses collide in pursuit of continental glory.
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