Boulbina’s Extra-Time Stunner Sends Algeria into AFCON Quarter-Finals
Just as the prospect of a penalty shootout began to loom over the Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan in Rabat, substitute Adil Boulbina produced a moment of magic to secure Algeria a 1-0 victory over DR Congo. This hard-fought win sends the Dessert Foxes into the Africa Cup of Nations quarter-finals for the first time since their 2019 title-winning campaign, marking a significant milestone in their recent tournament history.
The Round of 16 clash was a cagey, tactical affair defined more by defensive discipline than attacking flair. For ninety minutes, both sides remained deadlocked as Algeria controlled much of the possession while the Leopards remained compact and dangerous on the counter. DR Congo nearly broke the deadlock in the first half when Cedric Bakambu forced a sharp save from Luca Zidane, while Axel Tuanzebe saw a goal-bound header whistle just wide of the post. Algeria’s best chance in regulation came through young striker Ibrahim Maza, whose low drive narrowly missed the far post just before the interval.
The second half saw mounting tension and a bold move from Algeria head coach Vladimir Petković, who withdrew captain Riyad Mahrez in the seventy-first minute. The decision initially raised eyebrows as Algeria struggled to find a creative spark against the resolute Congolese backline, which was led by an inspired Chancel Mbemba. As the match pushed into extra time, fatigue began to set in for both squads. DR Congo goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi produced a string of world-class saves to deny Farès Chaïbi and Baghdad Bounedjah, appearing to single-handedly drag his team toward a shootout.
The decisive moment arrived in the one hundred and nineteenth minute of play. With only sixty seconds remaining before penalties, Boulbina picked up a pass from Ramiz Zerrouki on the left flank. Having been brought on specifically as a late sub for the shootout, the youngster instead took matters into his own hands by cutting inside past Aaron Wan-Bissaka and unleashing a thunderous, curling strike that nested into the top-right corner.
The goal sparked scenes of absolute elation among the Algerian supporters in Morocco, while leaving the Congolese players slumped on the pitch in heartbreak. Statistically, Algeria finished the match with fifty-nine percent possession and five shots on target compared to two for DR Congo. After the match, Boulbina described the goal as a dream come true, noting that while he was prepared to take a penalty, he couldn’t pass up the opportunity to shoot when he saw the space open up.
Algeria now moves on to a heavyweight quarter-final showdown against Nigeria in Marrakesh this Saturday. For DR Congo, a brave tournament run ends in the cruelest of fashions, though they will head home with their heads held high as they turn their attention toward World Cup qualifiers in March.
