Mohamed Amoura scored twice and Riyad Mahrez added another as Algeria defeated Somalia 3-0 on Thursday to secure a spot in the 2026 World Cup.
With the win, Algeria qualifies for the 2026 World Cup, becoming the fourth African team to do so after Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt. The victory at the Miloud Hadefi Stadium in Oran sealed Algeria’s seventh World Cup appearance, as they topped Group G with 22 points from nine games, four ahead of Uganda with one match remaining.
Amoura opened the scoring in the sixth minute, volleying in a cross from Mahrez. The former Manchester City winger then doubled the lead midway through the first half after finishing off a loose ball. In the 57th minute, Mahrez again provided the assist for Amoura’s second goal, completing the 3-0 triumph.
Coach Vladimir Petkovic, who replaced Djamel Belmadi last year, praised the team’s composure and teamwork. Petkovic previously guided Switzerland to the Euro 2020 quarterfinals.
Belmadi, once celebrated as Algeria’s “minister of happiness” after winning the 2019 AFCON, lost favor following poor performances in the 2022 and 2024 AFCONs and failure to reach the 2022 World Cup.
Ranked 38th globally, Algeria made their World Cup debut in 1982 in Spain, famously defeating West Germany 2-1 before a controversial group-stage exit. Their last appearance came in Brazil 2014, where they reached the Round of 16 but lost 2-1 to Germany in extra time.
With Algeria qualifying for the 2026 World Cup, fans are hopeful this golden generation can go further than ever before.
