The match promises to be explosive. In the round of 16 of the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, Algeria and the Democratic Republic of Congo will face off in a clash between two nations with contrasting recent trajectories, but whose ambitions remain undiminished. Between an Algeria seeking redemption and a DR Congo looking to solidify its new status, the duel promises to be electrifying.

Having been eliminated prematurely from the last two Africa Cup of Nations tournaments in Cameroon in 2021 and Ivory Coast in 2023, Algeria approaches this Moroccan edition with a clear objective: to go far in the tournament. These successive failures have left their mark on the Fennecs, who were long considered one of the continent's powerhouses after their triumph in 2019.

In Morocco, Algeria is looking to turn the page. Boasting a squad that blends experienced veterans like Mahrez, Bensebaini, and Aissa Mandi with hungry young talents such as Farés Chaibi, Amoura, and Adil Boulbina, the Algerian national team is approaching the match with a sense of pressure but also a renewed sense of determination. This round of 16 match represents much more than just a knockout game: it's a test of character, a key step to prove that the Fennecs, who have qualified for the 2026 World Cup, have finally put their past disappointments behind them.

On the other side, DR Congo is far from an outsider. A semi-finalist in the last Africa Cup of Nations, the Congolese national team has established itself as a force to be reckoned with in African football. Led by a talented and disciplined generation, they arrive in Morocco with clearly stated ambitions.

Still in contention for a 2026 World Cup qualification spot, DR Congo sees this Africa Cup of Nations as a logical continuation of its progress. It's hard to imagine the Leopards being eliminated in the round of 16 given their current positive momentum. Solid defensively and capable of launching quick counter-attacks, Chancel Mbemba and his teammates intend to give it their all against an Algerian side under pressure.

This round of 16 match pits two teams against each other who refuse to accept an early exit. Algeria wants to reclaim its former glory, while DR Congo aims to confirm its place among Africa's elite nations. The stakes are incredibly high, the atmosphere intense, and there is no room for error. It's worth noting that the winner of this tie will face the winner of the Ivory Coast-Burkina Faso match.