- Here is Algeria vs DR Congo prediction article which provides a comprehensive preview, key statistics, and head-to-head analysis ahead of the clash.
- The fixture marks the penultimate round of the Africa Cup of Nations last 16 in Morocco.
- Kick-off is set for 7:00 PM EAT / 5:00 PM local time.
Algeria clashes with DR Congo on Tuesday evening in what is expected to be a thrilling penultimate Round of 16 match at the Africa Cup of Nations (AFCON) 2025, as both sides square off at the Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat.
Two-time champions DR Congo enter this fixture seeking a record 10th quarterfinal appearance in the AFCON, having previously progressed in 1992, 1994, 1996, 1998, 2002, 2006, 2015, 2017, and 2023.
The Sebastien Desabre-led squad has enjoyed a solid campaign to reach the knockout stage, completing the group phase undefeated for the second successive time after 2023.
They opened with a victory over Benin, drew with Senegal, and sealed their place with a 3-0 win against Botswana in their final group match.
Meanwhile, Vladimir Petkovics side aims to return to the quarterfinals for the first time following disappointing exits in 2021 and 2023.
They have been impressive so far, qualifying for the last 16 undefeated and standing among the few teams to win all their group matches.
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A commanding 3-0 triumph over Sudan in their opener set the tone perfectly for the two-time champions, who followed up with victories against Burkina Faso and Equatorial Guinea.
They approach this encounter brimming with confidence, having netted seven goals in the group stage while also showcasing defensive resilience by conceding just once.
Here are the key details for the Algeria vs DR Congo clash on Tuesday evening, along with betting tips from SportPesa, which offers a variety of markets with instant payouts.
What time does Algeria vs DR Congo kick off?
The match takes place at the Complexe Sportif Prince Moulay Abdellah in Rabat on Tuesday, January 6, with kickoff set for 7 pm EAT / 5 pm local time.
Algeria vs DR Congo team news
The Desert Foxes have only one injury concern: left-back Jaouen Hadjam, with the Young Boys defender nursing an ankle problem.
Riyad Mahrez remains their standout talent on the right flank.
The former Manchester City winger made the difference in the narrow 1-0 win over Burkina Faso on matchday two, and they also boast one of the tournament’s top goalkeepers Luca Zidane, son of Zinedine Zidane.
For the Leopards, West Ham past and present; Arthur Masuaku and Aaron Wan-Bissaka are key, alongside former Newcastle defender Chancel Mbemba at centre-back. Axel Tuanzebe completes the back four in front of goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi.
Algeria vs DR Congo predicted lineups
- Algeria: Zidane; Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Dorval; Boudaoui, Bennacer; Amoura, Mahrez, Hadj Moussa; Maza
- DR Congo: Mpasi-Nzau; Masuaku, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Wan-Bissaka; Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Mukau; Elia, Bakambu, Bongonda
Algeria vs DR Congo head-to-head record and past meetings
This will be the third meeting between the sides at AFCON. Their first encounter came at the 1998 finals, when Algeria claimed a 1-0 group stage victory, Abdelkader Ferhaoui scoring the only goal in the 36th minute.
They also met at the 2000 edition, opening Group B with a 0-0 draw in Kumasi.
Overall, the teams have faced each other seven times. Algeria have recorded three wins, while DR Congo are yet to win, with four matches ending in draws.
Their most recent meeting was a friendly international played in Blida in October 2019. Algeria took the lead in the 6th minute through Islam Slimani before Cédric Bakambu equalised for DR Congo in the 26th minute.
PAST AFCON MEETINGS
- 1998 – Group Stage – 19 March 1998 – Algeria 1–0 DR Congo
- 2000 – Group B – 24 January 2000 – DR Congo 0–0 Algeria
Algeria vs DR Congo prediction and betting tips
Algeria are unbeaten in their last 15 AFCON matches when scoring first (W10 D5), since a 3-1 defeat to Morocco in the 2004 quarterfinals.
They are the only team to score first in 10 or more AFCON matches since 2010 without losing any of them.
As for the Leopards, they have scored 99 goals at AFCON; their next will be their 100th, making them the eighth team to reach that milestone.
It is expected to be a thrilling match on Tuesday, with both sides arriving in strong form.
Algeria are the heavy favorites to win and progress into the next round, but DR Congo cannot be ruled out as a dangerous opponent capable of forcing the game into extra time or even penalties.