Algeria vs DR Congo Preview: Lineups, Tactics & Knockout Stakes

AFCON 2025 reached its peak in Rabat as Algeria vs DR Congo delivered a tense Round of 16 showdown at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium. Both teams arrived unbeaten, and their January 6, 2026 meeting quickly became a battle of control and defensive discipline. Algeria’s flawless group-stage form met a well-drilled Congolese “Leopards” side focused on denying space and disrupting rhythm. The result was a display of tactical maturity, ending 0–0 after 90 minutes and pushing the contest into extra time.

Technical Breakdown: Algeria’s Offensive Persistence

Under Vladimir Petković, Algeria operated in a fluid 4-2-3-1 built on vertical movement and sustained possession. The Fennecs controlled around 68% of the ball, patiently probing the Congolese mid-block for openings. Ibrahim Maza stood out as a key creative outlet, testing the defense and nearly scoring just before halftime. However, despite their technical control and a narrow edge in shots on target (3–2), Algeria lacked the decisive final touch against a deep defensive setup.

Match Metric (90 Mins)	Algeria (Fennecs)	DR Congo (Leopards)
Shots on Target	3	2
Ball Possession	~68%	~32%
Saves (Zidane vs. Mpasi)	2	3

Defensive Prowess: DR Congo’s Unyielding Resistance

Sébastien Desabre’s DR Congo side again showed why they rank among the tournament’s hardest defenses to break down. Operating in a disciplined 4-3-3, the Leopards prioritized structural stability and targeted pressing to limit Algeria’s creative outlets, including Riyad Mahrez. Aaron Wan-Bissaka delivered elite 1v1 defending on the right flank, while Chancel Mbemba and Axel Tuanzebe controlled the aerial battle. Despite spending long periods under pressure, DR Congo remained a counter-attacking threat and nearly stole victory through Fiston Mayele’s late header.

Historical Trends: The Cycle of Level Results

The Round of 16 clash in Rabat extended a familiar pattern in this fixture. The last four meetings between Algeria and DR Congo have all ended in draws, including three straight 1–1 results in friendlies. While Algeria hold the overall edge (3 wins, 5 draws), they have not beaten the Leopards in open play since 1988. This run of stalemates reflects DR Congo’s tactical growth, underlined by their fourth consecutive AFCON knockout appearance.

💬 Deep Analysis & Recommendations

Strategic insights and key details regarding the Rabat knockout encounter.

1) What was the confirmed starting lineup for Algeria?

Ans: Algeria fielded a 4-2-3-1: 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—who scored 7 goals in the group stage—to zero goals in 90 minutes, DR Congo successfully executed their plan to frustrate the Fennecs through a disciplined mid-block and spatial denial.

3) Who missed the match due to injury or suspension?

Ans: Mohammed Amoura suffered a minor foot injury early in the match but was able to continue after treatment. Ramy Bensebaini also required medical attention for a head injury during the second half.

4) Which team does the winner of this match face in the quarterfinals?

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.