AFCON 2025: Algeria Top Group E to Set Up Blockbuster Last‑16 Clash With Congo DR

From the opening whistle, Algeria showed why they are among the tournament’s frontrunners. Calm in possession, incisive on the break, and relentless in the press, the Desert Foxes overwhelmed Equatorial Guinea to secure a commanding 3–1 victory in their Africa Cup of Nations Group E clash.

Djamel Belmadi’s side dictated every phase of play, moving the ball with patience before striking at pace. Their midfield control and attacking movement created constant problems, and the breakthrough arrived in the 22nd minute when Zineddine Belaïd powered home a header from a corner.

Fares Chaïbi doubled the lead with a brilliant solo run and finish, before Ibrahim Maza added a third before halftime. Equatorial Guinea briefly responded through Emilio Nsue early in the second half, but Algeria managed the game with maturity to close out the win.

Algeria Next Match

Algeria’s victory sealed a perfect Group E campaign, nine points from three matches and an impressive goal difference. Riding that momentum, the Desert Foxes now turn their focus to a blockbuster Round of 16 showdown with Congo DR, a clash set to be one of the standout battles of the AFCON 2025 knockout stage.