On Thursday, Algeria clinched their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup by defeating Somalia 3-0 at the Miloud Hadefi Stadium in Bir El Djir, marking a triumphant qualification on home ground.
The Desert Foxes secured a vital three points, extending their lead over Uganda in Group G to four points with just one match remaining. This cushion guarantees their top position in the group, regardless of the outcome of the final fixture.
Having participated in four previous World Cups, Algeria’s last appearance was in 2014, and this victory ensures their return to the global stage.
Meanwhile, Somalia remains anchored at the bottom of the group, having earned only a single point from nine matches so far.
According to Supersport, Mohamed Amoura set the tone early by heading in Riyad Mahrez’s precise cross in the sixth minute, giving Algeria an immediate advantage.
Shortly after, Baghdad Bounedjah came close to doubling the lead with a header that narrowly missed the target.
In the 18th minute, Bounedjah’s cross from the left flank was intercepted, but the ball fell to Farès Chaïbi, whose follow-up shot struck the post, denying Algeria a quick second goal.
Mahrez, continuing to influence the attack, scored Algeria’s second goal just a minute later. Chaïbi’s cross from the byline bypassed the crowded goal area and found Mahrez unmarked, who expertly placed the ball into the top left corner, marking his second key contribution of the match.
The Desert Foxes maintained relentless pressure, with Ramy Bensebaini’s header in the 26th minute thwarted by Somalia’s goalkeeper Abdirahman Mohamud Jama.
Somalia’s first significant chance came in the 38th minute when Handwalla Bwana received a corner at the edge of the box but sent his shot over the crossbar.
In the second half, Algeria extended their lead in the 57th minute. Mahrez’s deft cross found Amoura, who rose to head in his second goal of the evening.
At the 62nd minute mark, Ibrahim Maza attempted a shot from outside the area but failed to hit the target.
Somalia’s defense was tested again in the 77th minute when Faisal Othman bravely blocked a close-range shot inside the penalty area.
Late in the game, substitute Youcef Belaïli showcased impressive dribbling skills in the 89th minute, weaving past defenders into the box, but his final shot went wide.
With their World Cup qualification confirmed, Algeria can approach their upcoming match against Uganda at the Hocine Aït Ahmed Stadium on Tuesday without any pressure.
Somalia, on the other hand, will aim to conclude their campaign on a high note by seeking a victory when they host Mozambique at the Miloud Hadefi Stadium on the same day.
