AFCON: Algeria star Mohamed Amoura apologises to DR Congo

Algeria national team player Amoura Mohamed has apologised to Democratic Republic of Congo fans following an action that was said to have been a sign of mockery against the fans.

Substitute Adil Boulbina struck deep into extra time to send Algeria into the quarterfinals of the Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, sealing a hard-fought 1-0 victory over stubborn Leopards in Rabat.

With penalties looming after a tense and 0-0 contest, Boulbina delivered the decisive moment in the 118th minute, just five minutes after coming off the bench.

The forward cut inside from the right and curled a superb strike beyond goalkeeper Lionel Mpasi-Nzau, whose heroics had kept DR Congo level for much of the match.

‘I respect Congo and their team’

Through his Instagram page, he wrote; – “The game against Congo was a very big game, with fierce competition, full of pressure and a lot of emotions on the field.

“I would like to make one thing clear: at that time, I did not know the meaning of the person or the sign that was on the stage. I was just joking with a normal sports joke, without any bad intentions or the intention to provoke or offend anyone.

“I respect Congo and their team. I really wish them all the best and I hope they will succeed in qualifying for the World Cup.

“If what I did was misunderstood, I sincerely apologise, because it was not my intention at all, I continue to remain focused on my duties on the field and represent my country with pride.”

The win enabled Algeria to advance to a last eight showdown against Nigeria.