The gripping Africa Cup of Nations 2025 Round of 16 clash between Algeria vs DR Congo takes place on Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at 4:00 PM GMT (11:00 AM ET). Hosted at Stade Prince Moulay El Hassan in Rabat, Morocco, this knockout tie features the group-topping Desert Warriors against the resilient Leopards, who advanced as one of the best third-placed teams.
Algeria cruised through the AFCON 2025 group stage unbeaten, showcasing defensive solidity and attacking flair under coach Vladimir Petković.
No major injuries were reported, though Rayan Aït-Nouri is doubtful, allowing focus on maintaining their perfect record in the tournament.
DR Congo pushed forward with determined performances, leaning on seasoned players during a squad transition. Coach Sébastien Desabre faces only minor issues and has almost his full team available, focusing on solid organization to handle Algeria’s strengths.
AFCON 2025 Round of 16 – Algeria vs DR Congo team news, predicted lineups, and match predictions
This AFCON 2025 Round of 16 encounter in Rabat pits favorites Algeria against surprise package DR Congo.
The Desert Warriors’ control and home-like support in Morocco contrast the Leopards’ physicality and counter-threats, promising a tactical battle where Algeria’s superiority should prevail, though DR Congo’s resilience could force extra time.
Team News and Analysis
Algeria enters at full strength aside from potential doubts over Aït-Nouri, with Petković favoring a balanced 4-2-3-1 for possession dominance. Their group stage highlighted clean sheets and efficient transitions.
DR Congo has a healthy squad, with Desabre prioritizing compactness in a 4-1-4-1 to frustrate Algeria. Their advancement shows grit, but containing Mahrez and company will test their backline.
Algeria vs DR Congo Head-to-Head Record
Algeria remains unbeaten against DR Congo in seven meetings, with 3 wins and 4 draws. Recent encounters favor low-scoring affairs, adding caution to this knockout.
| Date | Competition | Result | Venue |
| Recent | Various | Algeria unbeaten (3 wins, 4 draws) | Various |
| (Historical Average) | Various | Algeria Wins: 3, Draws: 4, DR Congo Wins: 0 | Various |
Algeria vs DR Congo Predicted XI Lineups
- Algeria Started XI (4-2-3-1): Zidane; Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Ait-Nouri; Boudaoui, Bennacer; Mahrez, Chaibi, Amoura; Maza.
- Subs: Mandrea, Benbot, Dorval, Belaid, Atal, Zerrouki, Abdelli, Zorgane, Hadj Moussa, Kebbal, Bounedjah, Bakrar, Boulbina, Berkane.
- DR Congo Stared XI (4-3-3): Mpasi; Wan-Bissaka, Mbemba, Tuanzebe, J Kayembe; Sadiki, Moutoussamy, Mukau; Elia, Bakambu, Bongonda.
- Subs: Fayulu, Epolo, Kapuadi, Batubinsika, Bushiri, Kalulu, Pickel, E Kayembe, Kakuta, Mbuku, Essende, Mayele, Cipenga, Banza, Balikwisha.
Key Players
For Algeria, Riyad Mahrez stands out with his dribbling and vision, alongside Ismaël Bennacer (if fit) for midfield dominance and Baghdad Bounedjah’s finishing.
DR Congo relies on Chancel Mbemba for defensive leadership, Yoane Wissa for pace, and Cedric Bakambu for experienced goal threat.
Algeria vs DR Congo Match Prediction
Algeria is predicted to win 2-1, edging through with superior quality despite DR Congo’s fight, with a 60% chance of progression. Expect over 2.5 goals if the Leopards open up, though a tight 1-0 remains possible.
Where to Watch Algeria vs DR Congo
In the USA, the Algeria vs DR Congo AFCON match airs live on beIN Sports, with streaming on beIN Sports Connect, Fanatiz, and fuboTV. Coverage starts ahead of the 11:00 AM ET kickoff, with highlights on FWCN platforms.
