Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez has expressed confidence ahead of the national team’s crucial 2026 World Cup qualifier against Botswana, emphasizing that the Greens are fully focused on securing victory.
The match, set to take place on March 21 in Francistown, will be a key test for Algeria as they look to maintain their position at the top of Group G.
Botswana, currently third and three points behind, have made their ambitions clear, with head coach Morena Ramoreboli eager to pull off an upset.
Botswana’s bold challenge
Ramoreboli, speaking ahead of the fixture, acknowledged Algeria’s quality but remained optimistic about his team’s chances.
“They are a tough, fast, and well-organised team that knows how to exploit space and create danger on the wings. We know it will be difficult, but we have our strengths. We will prepare seriously to get a positive result,” the South African coach stated.
He also highlighted Botswana’s broader objectives: “We want to progress and improve our FIFA ranking. To do this, we have to beat teams like Algeria.”
Mahrez focused on victory
In response to Botswana’s challenge, Mahrez made it clear that Algeria is fully prepared for a tough battle but remains determined to take all three points.
“It’s going to be tough there. We’ll have to be ready. Inshallah, we’re going there to win,” Mahrez told Sport Team on Tuesday evening, following Al-Ahli’s 3-1 victory over Al-Rayyan in the AFC Champions League round of 16. Mahrez played a key role in that win, scoring his 11th goal of the season in all competitions.
With 87 international caps and a 2019 Africa Cup of Nations title to his name, Mahrez remains a key figure in Algeria’s setup.
He concluded with a message to the supporters:
“We are always proud to be Algerian and always happy that they are behind us. Inshallah, we will make them proud.”
High stakes in Francistown
As Algeria prepares for the trip to Botswana, the stakes are high.
A win would further solidify their position at the top of Group G, while a setback could tighten the race for qualification.
With Mahrez and his teammates fully focused, the Greens will be looking to extend their strong campaign and move one step closer to the 2026 World Cup.
