Two of Africa’s football heavyweights, Algeria and Ivory Coast, booked their places in the quarter-finals of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations on Tuesday night, doing so in contrasting but equally emphatic fashion as the tournament edged closer to its decisive stages.

In Rabat, Algeria survived a tense and exhausting battle against a stubborn Democratic Republic of Congo side, sealing qualification with a dramatic 1–0 victory after extra time. For much of the night, both teams traded blows without finding a breakthrough, as goalkeepers and defenders stood firm under pressure.

DR Congo’s Lionel Mpasi frustrated Algeria repeatedly, denying captain Riyad Mahrez and his teammates as the match dragged into extra time. Just when penalties appeared inevitable, substitute Adil Boulbina delivered a moment of magic. In the 119th minute, he unleashed a thunderous strike that kissed the underside of the crossbar before crashing into the net, sparking wild celebrations among the Algerian supporters.

After the final whistle, Algeria coach Vladimir Petković praised his team’s composure and mental strength, while DR Congo boss Sébastien Desabre reflected proudly on his side’s performance despite the narrow defeat. The win sets up a mouth-watering quarter-final showdown between Algeria and Nigeria in Marrakech on January 10.

Earlier in Marrakech, defending champions Ivory Coast produced a dominant display to end Burkina Faso’s campaign with a convincing 3–0 victory. From the opening whistle, the Elephants asserted their authority and never relinquished control.

Manchester United winger Amad Diallo once again stole the spotlight. He opened the scoring in the 20th minute with a delicate finish over the advancing goalkeeper, before turning provider just 12 minutes later, setting up Yan Diomande to double the lead before half-time. Ivory Coast continued to press after the break, and their superiority was finally underlined in the 87th minute when Bazoumana Touré completed the rout with a calm finish after a surging run from deep.

The result secured Ivory Coast a quarter-final clash with seven-time champions Egypt in Agadir next Saturday, as they continue their quest to defend the continental crown.

With Algeria and Ivory Coast now through, the AFCON 2025 quarter-final line-up is complete, featuring a host of African giants including Nigeria, Egypt, Morocco, Senegal, Cameroon and others still dreaming of continental glory. As the tournament reaches its knockout crescendo, the upcoming clashes promise high drama, fierce rivalries, and unforgettable moments on Africa’s biggest football stage.