Algeria vs DR Congo: Tactical Stalemates and Knockout Drama

A quarterfinal place was at stake in Rabat as Algeria vs DR Congo headlined a tense AFCON 2025 Round of 16 clash at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium. Both sides arrived unbeaten and approached the knockout tie with caution, favoring structure over risk. Algeria, under Vladimir Petković, sought to continue their perfect run, while Sébastien Desabre’s disciplined Leopards focused on frustrating one of the tournament’s most potent attacks. Played on January 6, 2026, the match became a tactical duel of pressing and positioning, ending scoreless after 90 minutes and forcing extra time.

The Fennecs’ Offensive Engine: Dominance Without the Breakthrough

Algeria’s 4-2-3-1 system was built to harness Ibrahim Maza’s creativity and Riyad Mahrez’s experience. Over 90 minutes, the Fennecs controlled about 68% possession, moving the ball with patience and precision. Their best opening came in the 78th minute, when Mohamed Amoura’s powerful solo run was denied by Lionel Mpasi. Despite their technical edge and higher shot volume, Algeria struggled to deliver a decisive final pass against a compact, deep defense.

Metric (Regulation Time)	Algeria (Fennecs)	DR Congo (Leopards)
Shots on Target	3	2
Ball Possession	68%	32%
Saves (Luca Zidane vs. Mpasi)	2	3

Congolese Resilience: The Defensive Masterclass

Sébastien Desabre’s low-block setup focused on denying space rather than controlling possession. Aaron Wan-Bissaka played a pivotal role, using his 1v1 defending to limit Algeria’s right-flank threat. Backed by the physical presence of Chancel Mbemba and Axel Tuanzebe, the Congolese defense endured sustained pressure, including a double-save moment in the 86th minute. That resilience almost produced a late smash-and-grab, before Fiston Mayele’s 91st-minute header was crucially deflected by Himad Abdelli.

Historical Patterns: A Legacy of Competitive Stalemate

History echoed again in Rabat as the rivalry’s pattern of parity continued. The previous four meetings all ended in draws, three of them finishing 1–1. Algeria remain unbeaten across eight encounters (3 wins, 5 draws), yet they have not beaten the Leopards in open play since 1988. In a knockout setting that requires a winner, this run of stalemates highlights the narrowing tactical gap between North Africa’s established powers and Central Africa’s rising challengers.

💬 Deep Analysis & Recommendations

Exploring the critical factors and strategic nuances of the Algeria vs. DR Congo match.

1) What was the confirmed starting lineup for Algeria in the Round of 16?

Ans: Algeria lined up in a 4-2-3-1 formation: Luca Zidane (GK); Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Ait-Nouri; Boudaoui, Bennacer; Mahrez, Chaibi, Amoura; and Ibrahim Maza.

2) Why was the match result considered a “tactical victory” for DR Congo?

Ans: By limiting Algeria—the group stage’s highest-scoring team—to zero goals in 90 minutes, DR Congo successfully executed their game plan of neutralizing elite offensive threats through a disciplined mid-block.

3) Are there any major injury updates following the Rabat clash?

Ans: Algeria’s Ramy Bensebaini required medical attention twice due to a clash of heads but initially continued. DR Congo was without Arthur Masuaku due to an ankle injury sustained earlier.

4) Who does the winner of this match face in the next round?

Ans: The winner advances to the Quarterfinals to play Nigeria on January 10, 2026. Nigeria secured their spot after a dominant 4-0 win over Mozambique.