AFCON 2025: Provocations cloud Algeria’s dramatic win against DR Congo

Algeria’s dramatic 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo in extra time on Tuesday in Rabat should have been a celebration of footballing skill and determination.

Instead, the late triumph, sealed by Adil Boulbina’s 119th-minute strike, was marred by a series of provocations and inappropriate behavior that cast a shadow over the Fennecs’ achievement.

While Boulbina’s goal earned Algeria a spot in the quarter-finals, the events surrounding it highlighted a troubling pattern where emotion and excess overshadow the values of sport.

The match itself was tense and tightly contested. The Fennecs struggled for much of the game, only finding the breakthrough in the dying moments.

The DR Congo, resilient and disciplined, left the pitch with their heads held high, demonstrating that courage and sportsmanship remain central to African football. Yet off the field, moments of disrespect diverted attention from the sporting narrative.

Fans and players at the center of controversy

One incident that drew widespread attention involved VfL Wolfsburg forward Mohamed Amoura and Michel Kuka Mboladinga, a Congolese fan known as “Lumumba.” Mboladinga, whose frozen stance paying tribute to Patrice Lumumba had become a viral symbol of pride, was mocked by Amoura, who imitated and fell dramatically in front of him.

L’iconique célébration de Mohamed Amine Amoura devant le fameux supporter congolais qui reste figé durant tout le match ! 💀🥶🥶🥶#Algérie #CAN2025 🇩🇿 pic.twitter.com/xWbS5goYnE

— FARID BOUSSALEM (@faridmca1921) January 6, 2026

The fan, visibly emotional, endured both the disappointment of elimination and public humiliation. Video clips of the interaction circulated widely, sparking criticism that went far beyond the stadium. It was seen as a breach of the respect owed to supporters and iconic figures alike.

Further provocations came from Algeria striker Baghdad Bounedjah, who reportedly directed offensive language at the crowd, which many interpreted as targeting Morocco and its national team.

Baghdad Bounedjah aux supporters algériens :

« N’touma les zhommes 🇩🇿 » ❤️❤️❤️ pic.twitter.com/4Vjg6TPBvF

— La Vague Verte ⭐️🇩🇿⭐️ (@la_vagueverte) January 6, 2026

In a tournament hosted by Morocco, widely praised for its professionalism and hospitality, such remarks were viewed as a betrayal of sporting ethics.

The contrast between the warm reception provided by Moroccan organizers and the behavior of a few Algerian players amplified the sense of unease surrounding the celebrations.

These incidents are not isolated. They echo past controversies, including the 2023 AFCON opening in Algiers, where Algerian fans chanted racist slogans against Moroccans.

Morocco, by contrast, has consistently promoted solidarity, respect, and fraternity in football, emphasizing the values that the sport should uphold.

Morocco delivers world-class organization despite tensions

Despite the tensions, the AFCON 2025 in Morocco has been widely celebrated for its organizational quality. From modern stadiums to efficient logistics and warm hospitality, both players and fans have praised the experience.

Algerian supporters attending the tournament confirmed that the competition’s infrastructure and planning set a high standard.

Ultimately, Algeria’s last-minute victory should have been remembered as a sporting triumph. Instead, it became a reflection of how provocations, insults, and emotional excess can overshadow achievement on the field.

Football allows passion, celebration, and rivalry—but respect remains non-negotiable.