Riyad Mahrez inspired Algeria to a dominant 3-0 victory over Somalia, sealing the Desert Foxes’ qualification as Africa’s fourth representatives for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
The veteran winger, formerly of Manchester City and Leicester City, delivered a masterclass in Oran — providing the assist for Mohamed Amoura’s early volley before doubling Algeria’s lead with a thunderous half-volley in the 19th minute.
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Mahrez continued to torment the Somali defence after the break, setting up Amoura for his second goal just 12 minutes into the second half.
Both players were later substituted to a standing ovation as Algeria cruised to a comfortable win.
Youcef Belaili came close to extending the lead, but the hosts settled for a commanding 3-0 triumph that was celebrated passionately by the home crowd.
With the result, Algeria secured top spot in Group G with one game remaining, confirming their return to the World Cup for the first time since 2014 — when they reached the Round of 16 before losing to eventual champions Germany.
Although Somalia were the designated hosts, the match was played in Oran due to the Ocean Stars’ lack of an approved international stadium.
Coach Vladimir Petkovic’s side now joins fellow North African nations Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt as confirmed qualifiers for the 2026 finals in North and Central America.
In the same group, Uganda strengthened their playoff ambitions after a 1-0 win over Botswana, courtesy of Jude Ssemugabi’s second-half header.
The Cranes are now three points ahead of Mozambique, who suffered a 2-1 home defeat to Guinea, and boast a superior goal difference. Uganda visit Algeria in their final fixture, while Mozambique face Somalia.
Across Group H, Liberia revived their chances of finishing second with a 3-1 victory over Namibia in Paynesville.
Early goals from Ayouba Kosiah (penalty) and Mamadu Bah set the tone before Edward Ledlum added a superb third.
Namibia pulled one back through David Ndeunyema late on but remain just one point ahead of Liberia.
The group remains open, with Namibia set to visit already-qualified Tunisia, while Liberia travel to Equatorial Guinea.
However, uncertainty lingers after Malawi’s match against Equatorial Guinea was called off due to “unforeseen travel complications” involving the visitors.
Equatorial Guinea’s FA later suspended head coach Juan Micha for refusing to travel, appointing assistant Casto Nopo to lead the team against Liberia.
2026 FIFA World Cup Qualifiers (CAF/Africa)
Results, Thursday 9 October
Burundi 0-1 Kenya
Liberia 3-1 Namibia
Mozambique 1-2 Guinea
Somalia 0-3 Algeria – *Algeria secured qualification
Malawi v Equatorial Guinea – Postponed
Botswana 0-1 Uganda
