Classic for Algeria. Vladimir Petkovic delivered his team composition for the Fennecs’ round of 16 against the Democratic Republic of Congo, the most anticipated display of this start of the knockout phase of the 2025 African Cup of Nations. Captain Riyad Mahrez will be there, as will the best Algerian player, Ibrahim Maza and goalkeeper Luca Zidane.
The coach thus favored experience after leaving the field to the young people during the final group match against Equatorial Guinea (3-1). Right winger Anis Hadj Moussa returns to the bench to open the lane for his captain, Monsef Bakrar cedes the lead of the attack to Mohamed Amoura, surprisingly silent in the face of the opposing cages since the start of the competition.
Algeria’s eleven : Luca Zidane – Rafik Belghali, Aïssa Mandi, Ramy Bensebaïni, Rayan Aït-Nouri – Ismaël Bennacer, Hicham Boudaoui – Riyad Mahrez (cap.), Ibrahim Maza, Farès Chaïbi – Mohamed Amoura
The DR Congo eleven : Lionel Pasi – Aaron Wan-Bissaka, Chancel Mbemba (Cap.), Axel Tuanzebe, Joris Kayembe – Ngal’yel Mukau, Samuel Moutoussy, Noah Sadiki – Théo Bongonda, Cédric Bakambu, Meschack Elia
On the DRC side, Chancel Mbemba retains the armband. The Lille player will be well supported in the hinge with Axel Tuanzebe. His northern teammate Ngal’ayel Mukau will be a step higher alongside Noah Sadiki and Samuel Moutoussamy. Up front, Cédric Bakambu will be in charge of the Leopards attack.
