Boulbina last-gasp stunner takes Algeria through to QF

Adil Boulbina and Amad Diallo stole the show as Algeria and Ivory Coast scored contrasting last-16 victories in Morocco on Tuesday to complete the Africa Cup of Nations quarterfinals lineup.

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Algeria's Adil Boulbina scores his team's winning goal against Democratic Republic of Congo in extra-time.

(AFP)

A stunning strike from substitute Boulbina with one minute of extra time remaining gave Algeria a 1-0 victory over the Democratic Republic of Congo in Rabat after an intense clash.

Diallo scored the opening goal and created the second as defending champions Ivory Coast overcame west African neighbours Burkina Faso 3-0 in Marrakesh.

While winger Diallo plays for Manchester United, who attract worldwide support, midfielder Boulbina lines up with Al-Duhail in the relative obscurity of the Qatari league. “We fought as a team. Everyone is focused on contributing in whatever way they can. There is also a real chemistry on the pitch, a closeness between us that makes our play more fluid,’ said Diallo.

“There is a genuine connection, a certain rhythm in the way we play. No one is trying to be the hero or to shine individually for the country.