Head coach of DR Congo Sebastien Desabre has expressed his disappointment following their elimination from the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations tournament.
The Leopards fell short to the North African football heavyweights in the last 16, denying them a place in the quarterfinals of the continental showpiece.
The much-anticipated clash between Algeria and DR Congo travelled to extra-time after a pulsating goalless draw in regular time, with Adel Boulbina’s rocket shot strike in the 118th-minute securing victory for the North African country over the Leopards.
Algeria have now set up a tie against the Super Eagles of Nigeria, who made light work of Mozambique to a book a place in the quarterfinals.
“We are disappointed with the loss to Algeria. The match was great, and my team fought until the last minute, but it wasn’t enough.”
“Algeria’s goal came from a decisive rebound, and I have nothing to blame the players for. We must now study the shortcomings and draw lessons before the World Cup play-off qualifiers next March.”
In high-stake quarterfinals clash on Saturday, January 10, 2025, Algeria will lock horns with the Super Eagles of Nigeria at the Marrakech Stadium, with both teams seeking for a win to secure a place in the semifinals of the tournament.
The last encounter between Algeria and Nigeria dates back to the semi-finals of the 2019 Africa Cup of Nations in Egypt, during which the Greens achieved victory by two goals to one. Algeria went ahead to secure the title for the second time in their history during the 2019 tournament.
