Algeria Clinch 2026 World Cup Spot with 3–0 Win Over Somalia

Mohamed Amoura scored a brace as Algeria defeated Somalia 3–0 on Thursday, booking their spot as the fourth African team to qualify for the 2026 World Cup, joining Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt.

The Wolfsburg forward opened the scoring in the 6th minute, volleying in a cross from Riyad Mahrez. He doubled the lead mid‑first half by burying a loose ball. Mahrez supplied a second assist in the 57th minute, laying on a pass for Amoura to make it 3–0. Confident in their progression, coach Vladimir Petković then substituted both goalscorers.

In Oran—a comfortable setting given the wide gulf in rankings between the Desert Foxes and the Ocean Stars—the result was never in serious doubt.

With one round remaining in Group G, Algeria lead with 22 points, four clear of second‑placed Uganda. Mozambique are third, followed by Guinea, Botswana, and Somalia.

Another storyline from the matchweek: Luca Zidane, son of French legend Zinedine Zidane, recently switched his senior international allegiance from France to Algeria. Now a goalkeeper at Spanish side Granada, his inclusion in the squad marks a notable addition to Algeria’s roster.

Algeria will be making their fifth World Cup appearance when the 2026 tournament kicks off in the USA, Canada, and Mexico. Their past runs include first round exits in 1982, 1986, and 2010, and a round-of‑16 finish in 2014.