FIFA 2026: Algeria has secured its return to the FIFA World Cup 2026 for the first time since 2014, with Riyad Mahrez delivering a captain’s performance in a convincing 3-0 win over Somalia. The victory confirmed Algeria as the winners of Group G with one game still to play, ensuring their qualification for the 2026 World Cup, which will be hosted across the United States, Mexico, and Canada.
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The match, although technically a home fixture for Somalia, was held in the Algerian coastal city of Oran due to the lack of a suitable stadium in Somalia. It turned into a celebratory evening for the Algerians, who dominated proceedings from start to finish. Mahrez, the former Manchester City and Leicester City winger, rolled back the years with a display full of flair, intelligence, and leadership.
He set the tone early, providing the assist for Mohamed Amoura’s opening goal with a perfectly placed cross that Amoura volleyed in confidently. Just minutes later, Mahrez doubled Algeria’s lead with a sublime half-volley that left the Somali goalkeeper rooted. The 19th-minute strike showcased the technique and composure that made him one of Europe’s finest wingers during his prime.
Algeria Seal World Cup Spot as Mahrez, Amoura Shine
Early in the second half, Mahrez once again showed his class, dancing past his defender and setting up Amoura for his second of the night. With the job effectively done, both Mahrez and Amoura were substituted, allowing the partisan crowd in Oran to give their heroes a well-deserved ovation.
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Although Algeria had more chances to extend their lead, most notably through Youcef Belaili, the final whistle confirmed what had already felt inevitable. The Desert Foxes were heading back to football’s grandest stage. Their last appearance in the tournament came in 2014, when they impressed many by reaching the Round of 16.
Under coach Vladimir Petkovic, Algeria has looked a rejuvenated side, blending experienced stars like Mahrez with rising talents like Amoura. Their campaign has been defined by consistent performances and a clear tactical identity, something that had been missing in recent years. The qualification also marks a symbolic victory for the nation, restoring pride after a turbulent period for Algerian football.
FIFA World Cup 2026: Mahrez Inspires, Luca Zidane Adds New Depth
Mahrez’s leadership has been key throughout the qualifiers, and this latest display reinforced his value to the national team even as he enters the twilight of his career. His influence on and off the pitch continues to inspire younger players, many of whom grew up watching him become a Premier League winner and a key figure in City’s domestic dominance.
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One notable addition to the Algerian squad during this international window was Luca Zidane, the son of French legend Zinedine Zidane. The 27-year-old goalkeeper, who previously represented France at the youth level, recently switched his international allegiance to Algeria, the country of his grandparents. Although he remained on the bench during the Somalia game.
His inclusion in the squad was a significant moment for both him and Algerian supporters. All my family are proud of me and back my choice, Zidane said on the eve of the game. My grandfather is happy that I’m in Algeria and that I’ve made this decision. His presence adds further depth and intrigue to a squad already filled with promise.
Football World Cup: Uganda Win as Liberia Boosts Group H Hopes
Elsewhere in Group G, Uganda strengthened their grip on second place after a narrow 1-0 victory away to Botswana, courtesy of a Jude Ssemugabi header from a corner in the second half. That result puts the Cranes three points clear of Mozambique, who suffered a damaging 2-1 home defeat to Guinea. Uganda now has a significant 10-goal advantage over Mozambique in terms of goal difference.
In the final round of fixtures, Uganda travels to face Algeria, while Mozambique will be away to Somalia. Only the four best second-placed teams across the nine African qualifying groups will move on to the CAF play-offs, and from there, just one team will advance to an intercontinental qualifier for a final shot at reaching the World Cup. Therefore, every goal and point in the final round will be critical.
In Group H, Liberia reignited their hopes of finishing second with an emphatic 3-1 win over Namibia in Paynesville. Ayouba Kosiah opened the scoring with a penalty, followed swiftly by a well-taken goal from Mamadu Bah, putting the hosts 2-0 up within the first 10 minutes. Edward Ledlum added a third late in the match with a beautifully curled strike, effectively sealing the win.
FIFA World Cup: Namibia Holds Second as Group H Battle Intensifies
Namibia managed a late consolation through David Ndeunyema, but it wasn’t enough to salvage the result. Despite the loss, Namibia remains second in the group on 15 points, just one point ahead of Liberia. The final round of Group H games could prove decisive, with Namibia facing a daunting trip to Tunisia, which has already qualified.
While Liberia will take on Equatorial Guinea away from home. However, the situation in the group was further complicated after Malawi’s match against Equatorial Guinea was postponed due to “unforeseen travel complications” involving the visitors. It remains unclear how or when that fixture will be rescheduled, leaving Group H’s final standings up in the air.
From a broader perspective, Algeria’s qualification means they join fellow North African powerhouses Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt in securing their places at the expanded 2026 World Cup. For the continent, this marks an exciting moment, as African teams aim to make deeper runs in the tournament, especially with the increase in slots for the region.
FIFA 2026: Algeria Look Ahead as World Cup Qualifying Nears End
With a blend of youth and experience, and players like Mahrez leading the way, Algeria will be looking to better their 2014 performance and perhaps even dream of a quarter-final or beyond. The road to 2026 is far from over for many other nations across Africa, with just one match remaining for most teams to either secure automatic qualification, battle into the play-offs, or bow out.
The intensity and passion shown in this round of fixtures underline just how much the World Cup means to players, coaches, and fans across the continent. As the final round approaches, eyes will remain firmly on the dramatic race for those precious remaining spots. I, Oran, though, the focus is already shifting toward preparations for the World Cup.
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Q1: How did Algeria qualify for the FIFA World Cup 2026?
Algeria qualified by winning Group G, securing a 3-0 victory over Somalia with Riyad Mahrez leading the team.
Q2: What is Riyad Mahrez’s role in Algeria’s FIFA World Cup qualification?
Mahrez played a key leadership role, scoring goals and assisting, inspiring the team throughout the qualifiers.
Q4: What impact did Luca Zidane have on Algeria’s FIFA 2026 campaign?
Luca Zidane joined the squad, adding depth as a goalkeeper after switching allegiance from France.
Q5: Which teams from Africa have already qualified for the Football World Cup?
Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt have secured their spots for the 2026 World Cup.
Q6: How is the race for World Cup qualification progressing in Group G?
Uganda holds second place, fighting for a play-off spot, while Mozambique and others still compete for qualification.
