Algeria booked their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a commanding 3-0 victory against Somalia on Thursday. Wolfsburg’s Mohamed Amoura was the standout performer, scoring twice to guide the Desert Foxes to qualification, while Riyad Mahrez added the third goal.
The win at Miloud Hadefi Stadium in Oran ensured Algeria became the fourth African team to qualify for next year’s global tournament, joining Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt. With 22 points from nine matches in Group G, Algeria topped the group by four points over Uganda with one match remaining, securing their fifth appearance at the World Cup.
Strong Start and Control in Oran
Algeria set the tone early, with Amoura opening the scoring in the sixth minute following a precise assist from Mahrez. The former Manchester City winger then doubled the lead midway through the first half, establishing clear dominance over the Somali side. Mahrez continued his influence on the match, creating the third goal for Amoura on the 57th minute, effectively sealing Algeria’s qualification.
Under the guidance of coach Vladimir Petkovic, Algeria demonstrated consistency and cohesion throughout the match. Petkovic, who took over after Djamel Belmadi’s departure, brought experience from coaching Switzerland to the Euro 2020 quarter-finals. Belmadi had previously led Algeria to their second Africa Cup of Nations triumph in 2019 but left after disappointing results in the 2022 World Cup and subsequent AFCON tournaments.
Historic Context and Road Ahead
Algeria’s World Cup history stretches back to 1982, when they famously defeated West Germany 2-1 but were controversially eliminated in the group stage. The Desert Foxes’ most recent participation came in 2014 in Brazil, reaching the knockout stage for the first time before falling 2-1 in extra time to Germany. Ranked 38th globally, Algeria now prepares for their campaign in North America with a blend of experienced stars and emerging talents.
The victory over Somalia not only confirms Algeria’s return to the world stage but also reinforces their status as a strong force in African football.
The team now looks to maintain momentum in the remaining qualifiers and build preparations for the tournament itself. With a balanced squad featuring goal scorers like Amoura and playmakers such as Mahrez, Algeria’s focus will shift to tactical refinement and team cohesion as they aim to make a significant impact in 2026.
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Algeria’s qualification highlights the competitive nature of African football, where consistent performance in group stages is crucial to secure a spot at the global tournament. The Desert Foxes’ ability to combine experience with youthful energy has proven effective, setting a benchmark for other African nations still battling for qualification.
As the countdown to the 2026 World Cup continues, Algeria will join a growing list of qualified nations, including Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt, all of whom are now preparing for the next phase of global football action.
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