From our special correspondents in Rabat, Morocco – Algeria scored a prestigious victory on Tuesday by knocking out DR Congo in their round of 16 at CAN 2025. France 24 collected the reactions of several Algerians who paid tribute to their evening opponents and spoke of their relief at their qualification for the quarters.

Published on: 01/07/2026 - 00:30Modified on: 01/07/2026 - 00:46

A measured joy and already the concentration towards the future. Winners at the end of extra time in their round of 16 of CAN 2025 against DR Congo on Tuesday January 6, the Algerians did not celebrate too much, aware that the coin could very well have fallen on their side in this undecided match until Boulbina's thunderclap in the 118th minute.

Passing at the same time as their counterparts in the mixed zone facing the journalists, we witnessed several scenes of fraternization between those who were still confronting each other a few minutes before. At the France 24 microphone, all the players praised the valor of their opponents.

Also read “It was the goal of the KO”: the Congolese disappointed after their defeat against Algeria

"DR Congo is a big team. For the race for the World Cup, they managed to eliminate Cameroon and Nigeria. They also drew against Senegal. We knew it was going to be difficult but we responded," said Aïssa Mandi, Algeria defender.

“A very good match”

"We are satisfied. What mattered most was the qualification against a very, very good team from Congo. They have very good players. It's a very good match," explains Rayan Aït-Nouri, the full-back.

Despite the tight scenario, the Algerians consider the victory deserved. A realization of the possession they exercised throughout the match.

Read alsoCAN 2025: Algeria dismisses DR Congo at the end of a heated and indecisive duel

"Congo also had a great match and the scenario smiled on us today at the last minute. It's beautiful and magnificent", jubilant Himad Abdelli, the midfielder who entered during the match.

“We responded. I think it’s deserved: on the number of chances we have, on the number of shots etc…”, lists Aïssa Mandi.

And Rayan Aït-Nouri praised the magnificent atmosphere in which the match took place: “We knew that the match was expected and the public was there.”

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