Vladimir Petkovic praised his Algerian side’s control and professionalism after the Desert Warriors edged past DR Congo in extra time to secure a place in the quarter-finals of the Africa Cup of Nations Morocco 2025.
Substitute Adil Boulbina was the decisive figure, coming off the bench to score the winning goal and earn the TotalEnergies Man of the Match award, though the 21-year-old was quick to deflect individual praise.
“First of all, thank God,” Boulbina said. “Congratulations to Algeria and to the fans. I came on late and scored, but it was a collective effort and not about me. It’s a great feeling for the team.”
The contest had been finely balanced for long spells, with DR Congo showing resilience and tactical discipline, particularly after half-time. Sébastien Desabre’s side grew into the game following several changes and pushed Algeria deep, forcing the match into extra time.
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“We played a good second half after the changes we made,” Desabre reflected. “But in extra time, there was a breakdown. We created chances and could have scored, but we didn’t. Luck was harsh on us. I have nothing to reproach the players for, they gave everything.”
Despite the disappointment, the DR Congo coach praised his players’ commitment and urged them to keep perspective after an intense battle that could have gone either way.
For Vladmir Petković, the focus was firmly on execution and game management, qualities he felt ultimately made the difference.
“I believe we deserved to win based on what our players delivered,” he said. “We controlled two-thirds of the match and played good football. We faced challenges, but we stayed together, dominated as a group, scored, and qualified. That is what mattered.”
Algeria will now turn their attention to a heavyweight quarter-final clash against Nigeria, as the Desert Warriors continue their pursuit of continental glory in Morocco.
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