Algeria will take on Congo DR at Stade Prince Moulay Hassan on Tuesday in a high-stakes Africa Cup of Nations 2025 clash, with a quarter-final spot up for grabs. Both sides impressed during the group stages, with Algeria finishing top of Group E with a perfect record, while Congo DR collected seven points from nine, securing second place in Group D.
Match Preview
After disappointing exits in the group stages of the last two AFCON tournaments, Algeria arrived in Morocco determined to prove a point. Vladimir Petkovic’s side opened with a convincing 3-0 victory over Sudan, followed by wins against Burkina Faso and Equatorial Guinea.
The Desert Warriors were one of only two teams, alongside Nigeria, to win all three group matches. They scored eight goals—the joint-highest—and conceded just one, showcasing their attacking potency and defensive solidity. Algeria’s ability to score early has been a trademark in recent matches, opening the scoring in each of their last six games, a trend they will look to continue on Tuesday.
While Algeria hold a five-game unbeaten record against Congo DR, the last three meetings were friendlies, adding a layer of unpredictability to the upcoming tie.
On the other hand, Congo DR have carried forward their strong form from the World Cup qualifiers, where they are one win away from qualification for North America 2026, into AFCON 2025. Sebastien Desabre’s side defeated Benin and Botswana, sandwiching a 1-1 draw with Senegal, to finish second in Group D on goal difference.
The Leopards are unbeaten in eight matches, demonstrating particular efficiency in low-scoring games. Their defense has conceded just two goals during that span, highlighting their ability to stay organized and compact. Like Algeria, Congo DR have also excelled at scoring first, finding the net early in nine of their last ten games across all competitions.
Recent Form
Algeria – AFCON Form: W, W, W
Algeria – All Competitions: W, W, L, W, W, W
Congo DR – AFCON Form: W, D, W
Congo DR – All Competitions: W, W, W, W, D, W
Team News
Algeria may be without Rayan Ait-Nouri, who was substituted in the final group game. Jaouen Hadjam is ruled out with an ankle injury. Riyad Mahrez leads the Algerian attack with three goals, closely followed by Ibrahim Maza, who has two.
For Congo DR, Arthur Masuaku will be assessed after missing the win over Botswana. If unfit, Joris Kayembe is expected to start at left-back.
Possible Lineups:
Algeria: Zidane; Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Dorval; Boudaoui, Bennacer; Amoura, Mahrez, Hadj Moussa; Maza
Congo DR: Mpasi-Nzau; Masuaku, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Wan-Bissaka; Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Mukau; Elia, Bakambu, Bongonda
Prediction
With both teams having already shown strong form, a competitive encounter is expected in Rabat. Algeria’s superior attacking depth gives them the edge in what promises to be an entertaining clash.
Our Pick: Algeria 2-1 Congo DR
