• AFCON 2025

• Sportsbeat Correspondent 3 months ago

Algeria face DR Congo in tough round of 16 clash

Algeria and DR Congo meet on Tuesday night in what promises to be one of the most balanced matches of the AFCON 2025 Round of 16.

The two strong African nations will battle for a place in the quarter-finals at Stade Moulay Hassan in Rabat, Morocco, with kick-off set for 7pm EAT.

Both teams impressed in the group stage and arrive unbeaten, setting up an exciting contest between Algeria’s attacking power and DR Congo’s solid defence. The winner will advance to face either Nigeria or Mozambique in the last eight.

Algeria come into the match full of confidence after finishing top of Group E with a perfect record. The Desert Foxes won all their three matches, scoring seven goals and conceding only two.

Their recent form has been equally strong, with 12 goals scored and just two allowed in their last five games across all competitions.

Under coach Vladimir Petković, Algeria have shown good balance, controlling games in midfield while remaining sharp in attack.

They are now 13 matches unbeaten in regulation time and have scored at least two goals in seven of those games.

However, Algeria have a few injury concerns. Defender Rayan Aït-Nouri is a doubt after picking up a knock in the final group match, while Jaouen Hadjam has been ruled out with an ankle injury.

Despite this, Algeria still boast plenty of quality. Captain Riyad Mahrez has already scored three goals in the tournament and remains the team’s main creative force.

Young midfielder Ibrahim Maza has also impressed with his movement and eye for goal, while Ismaël Bennacer and Hicham Boudaoui provide control and energy in midfield.

DR Congo, on the other hand, arrive quietly confident. The Leopards finished second in Group D with seven points after wins over Benin and Botswana and a hard-fought draw against Senegal. Their strength has been defensive discipline, with six clean sheets in their last eight matches.

Coach Sébastien Desabre has built a well-organised side that is hard to break down and dangerous on the counter-attack. In their last five matches, DR Congo have scored nine goals and conceded only two.

There are also fitness concerns for the Leopards, with Arthur Masuaku doubtful. If he misses out, Joris Kayembe is expected to fill in on the left. Up front, Cedric Bakambu is likely to lead the attack, supported by Theo Bongonda and Meschak Elia, while Chancel Mbemba and Axel Tuanzebe anchor a strong defence.

History slightly favours Algeria, who are unbeaten in their last five meetings with DR Congo. However, recent encounters suggest close games, with both teams finding the net in two of the last three meetings.

With Algeria’s attacking firepower and DR Congo’s strong organisation, this match is expected to be tight and competitive. Goals at both ends look likely, but small details could decide the outcome.