Algeria becomes fourth African country to qualify for 2026 World Cup; five more to be confirmed on Tuesday

Algeria have officially secured their place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking a triumphant return to the global stage after missing out on the 2022 edition in Qatar.

The North Africans went into the Round 9 Group G clash knowing that a win would seal their qualification, and they wasted no time asserting dominance. Within just six minutes, Mohamed Amoura opened the scoring after a neat assist from veteran winger Riyad Mahrez.

Mahrez turned from provider to scorer in the 19th minute, finishing off a fine team move set up by Fares Chaibi to double Algeria’s advantage before halftime.

Somalia struggled to contain the relentless Algerian attack after the break, and Amoura struck again in the 57th minute to complete his brace, once more assisted by Mahrez.

The result means Algeria extend their lead at the top of Group G to 22 points, confirming their place at next year’s global showpiece.

Led by captain Riyad Mahrez, the Desert Foxes’ qualification adds to North Africa’s strong representation, with Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt also booking their spots.

Attention now shifts to the remaining slots, with five more African teams, including Cape Verde, Ghana, Senegal, and Ivory Coast, expected to confirm their qualification by Tuesday.

Meanwhile, Group C remains finely poised, with leaders Benin and South Africa locked in an intense battle for top spot.