Algeria vs DR Congo: prediction, H2H, and probable lineups — January 6, 2026
On Tuesday, January 6, Algeria will face DR Congo in the Round of 16 of the Africa Cup of Nations. For a detailed look at both teams' form and a match prediction, read on below.
See also: Nigeria vs Mozambique prediction and betting tips 05 January 2026
Match preview
Algeria heads into this Round of 16 showdown with DR Congo riding a wave of confidence. Throughout the tournament, the team has looked solid: dynamic attacking play, dependable defense, and convincing victories. In the group stage, Algeria easily secured a playoff spot with three wins—over Sudan (3-0), Burkina Faso (1-0), and Equatorial Guinea (3-1)—to claim first place in their group. The team continues to dominate possession, but that control doesn't always translate into sustained pressure on the opposition's goal.
Tactically, Algeria remains faithful to a positional style built on technical skill and quick, short passing. The flanks and individual brilliance of attacking leaders play a huge role, but the team is often vulnerable after losing possession. They struggle in transitions: opponents find space behind the midfield line, forcing defenders to operate at their limits. Such looseness in the playoffs could prove costly.
DR Congo, meanwhile, has grown into the tournament. The Congolese navigated the group stage with discipline and physical readiness, defeating Benin (1-0) and Botswana (3-0), and drawing with Senegal (1-1) to secure second place in their group. While they didn't dominate possession, they imposed a physical game and disrupted their opponents’ tactical plans. Their pragmatic approach and high concentration were rewarded with a deserved place in the Round of 16.
DR Congo’s playing style revolves around a compact defense, intense midfield battles, and rapid vertical attacks. They are comfortable without the ball, thriving on tackles and lightning-quick counterattacks. The Congolese are especially dangerous on set pieces and second balls, where their physical edge makes the difference. However, in positional attacks, they sometimes lack creativity, which can leave them stuck without genuine scoring chances for long stretches.
Probable lineups
Algeria: Mandrea; Belghali, Mandi, Bensebaini, Ait-Nouri; Zerrouki, Boulbina, Chaibi; Moussa, Amoura, Bounedjah
DR Congo: M'Pasi; Kayembe, Tuanzebe, Mbemba, Wan-Bissaka; Moutoussamy, Sadiki, Mukau; Elia, Bongonda, Bakambu
Match facts and head-to-head
- The two sides have met five times, with Algeria winning twice and three matches ending in draws
- Algeria have won eight of their last ten matches, suffering just one defeat
- DR Congo have posted an identical record in their last ten games: eight wins and one loss
Prediction
The attacking firepower both teams have shown in this matchup suggests we could see plenty of goals. My prediction: total over (2) at 1.87
