Algeria vs DR Congo: Tactical Breakdown of the Rabat Clash

The AFCON 2025 Round of 16 peaked in Rabat as Algeria vs DR Congo delivered a high-stakes knockout clash at the Prince Moulay El Hassan Stadium. Both sides entered unbeaten, producing a contest where tactical discipline outweighed individual risk. Algeria, under Vladimir Petković, chased a perfect record, while Sébastien Desabre’s Leopards relied on defensive structure to contain the tournament’s most dangerous attack. The result was a showcase of modern African football, marked by intense pressing and collective resilience.

The Fennecs’ Offensive Engine: Dominance Without the Breakthrough

Algeria’s 4-2-3-1 setup aimed to maximize the creativity of Ibrahim Maza and the experience of captain Riyad Mahrez. Across 90 minutes, the Fennecs controlled around 68% possession, moving the ball with patience and purpose. Their clearest chance came in the 78th minute, when Mohamed Amoura’s explosive solo run was stopped by a sharp save from Lionel Mpasi. Despite superior control and shot volume, Algeria struggled to deliver a decisive final pass against DR Congo’s deep defensive block.

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

Congolese Resilience: The Defensive Masterclass

Sébastien Desabre’s low-block approach focused on denying space rather than dominating possession. The inclusion of Aaron Wan-Bissaka proved decisive, as his 1v1 defending muted Algeria’s threat on the right flank. Backed by the physical presence of Chancel Mbemba and Axel Tuanzebe, the Congolese defense withstood sustained pressure, including a dramatic double save in the 86th minute. That resilience nearly produced a late smash-and-grab, only for Fiston Mayele’s 91st-minute header to be heroically diverted by Himad Abdelli.

Historical Patterns: A Legacy of Competitive Stalemate

History again played its part in Rabat as both sides reinforced their reputation for deadlock. Prior to this knockout tie, the last four meetings had all ended in draws, three of them finishing 1–1. Algeria remain unbeaten across eight encounters (3 wins, 5 draws), yet they have not defeated the Leopards since 1988. In a knockout setting where separation is required, this run of stalemates underlines how the tactical gap between North Africa’s traditional powers and Central Africa’s rising forces has steadily narrowed.

💬 Deep Insights & 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 just three shots on target and 0 goals in 90 minutes, DR Congo successfully executed their game plan of neutralizing elite offensive threats through a disciplined mid-to-low 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 with his own goalkeeper but initially continued. DR Congo was already without Arthur Masuaku due to a prior ankle sprain.

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.