Algeria booked their place in the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations for the first time since lifting the trophy in 2019, edging past DR Congo 1-0 after extra time in a tense knockout encounter.

With the tournament entering its decisive phase, caution dominated the early exchanges. Despite the two sides scoring a combined 12 goals during the group stage, neither managed a shot in the opening 15 minutes as both prioritised defensive solidity.

The first real moments of danger arrived shortly before the half-hour mark and came from DR Congo. Cédric Bakambu forced a smart save from Luca Zidane, who tipped his effort around the post, before Axel Tuanzebe narrowly missed the target with a header from the resulting corner.

Beyond those chances, the first half remained low on quality and rhythm, with both teams reluctant to take risks as the fear of elimination loomed.

DR Congo emerged from the interval with renewed intent, increasing the pressure on the Algerian defence in search of a winner inside normal time. Chancel Mbemba came close when Algeria failed to clear a corner, but Hicham Boudaoui produced a crucial block to keep the scores level.

Algeria struggled to gain control, even after turning to their bench for inspiration and making the surprise decision to withdraw Riyad Mahrez. DR Congo continued to look the more threatening side, with Edo Kayembe’s powerful long-range effort requiring safe handling from Zidane.

Anis Hadj-Moussa offered one of Algeria’s few moments of promise, but his effort was comfortably saved by Lionel Mpasi as the match drifted towards extra time.

Algeria finally raised their intensity during the additional 30 minutes and nearly delivered a decisive blow when Baghdad Bounedjah surged into the area and fired narrowly wide with his left foot. Fares Chaibi then came agonisingly close to settling the contest, only for Mpasi to produce a stunning reflex save that appeared to send the tie towards penalties.

However, in the dramatic 119th minute, Adil Boulbina broke down the left flank and unleashed a thunderous strike into the far corner, sealing victory for Algeria and breaking DR Congo hearts.

The late goal denied Les Léopards a second consecutive AFCON quarter-final appearance, while Algeria march on, rekindling memories of their 2019 triumph.