Algeria dominated Somalia 3-0 with Mohamed Amoura’s brace and Riyad Mahrez’s strike, clinching their 5th World Cup spot and first since 2014. The win sealed Group G top spot, sparking celebrations across the North African nation.
North African soccer is buzzing after Algeria secured its return to the FIFA World Cup stage, defeating Somalia 3-0 in a decisive 2026 World Cup African Qualifiers Group G match. The victory, headlined by Mohamed Amoura’s two goals and a clinical finish from Riyad Mahrez, ended Algeria’s 12-year qualification drought and marked its fifth trip to the tournament—sending fans into a frenzy on Twitter and Facebook.
Match Recap: Algeria’s Dominant Display in Oran
Originally scheduled as a Somalia home game, the fixture shifted to Algeria’s Miloud Hadefi Stadium due to Somalia’s lack of FIFA-compliant venues . Algeria didn’t waste the home-field advantage, taking control from kickoff.
Wolfsburg forward Amoura broke the deadlock early, capitalizing on a well-timed run behind Somalia’s defense to slot home in the 24th minute . Manchester City veteran Mahrez doubled the lead just before halftime, finishing a swift counterattack with trademark confidence—prompting fans to flood social media with clips of the goal tagged #MahrezMagic.
Amoura put the game to bed in the 72nd minute, curling a left-footed effort into the top corner for his second of the night . Somalia, winless and bottom of Group G, rarely threatened, managing just one shot on target all evening.
Qualification Breakdown: How Algeria Clinched Group G
The 3-0 win pushed Algeria to 22 points (7 wins, 1 draw, 1 loss) in Group G, four clear of second-place Uganda—who defeated Botswana 1-0 the same day but couldn’t close the gap . With one match remaining, Algeria mathematically secured first place, becoming the fourth African nation to qualify for the 2026 World Cup (joint-hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico) alongside Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt .
“This is a proud moment for the team and the country,” said Algeria coach Vladimir Petković post-match . “The players showed great focus and determination. Qualifying is just the start; we now aim to prepare thoroughly for the World Cup.”
Algeria’s qualification ends a frustrating stretch—they missed out on the 2018 and 2022 tournaments after reaching the Round of 16 in 2014, where they lost to eventual champions Germany .
Star Performers: Amoura and Mahrez Lead the Charge
Amoura emerged as the hero of the night, his brace taking his qualifying tally to four goals . The 25-year-old forward, who has impressed for Wolfsburg in the Bundesliga, showcased the clinical finishing that has made him a fan favorite. “Scoring twice and helping Algeria qualify is a dream come true,” Amoura said after the match .
Mahrez, Algeria’s captain and most recognizable player, delivered another masterclass. The 33-year-old not only scored but orchestrated attacks from the right flank, reminding fans why he’s regarded as one of Africa’s best midfielders. His performance sparked a viral Twitter thread comparing his national team impact to his title-winning runs with Leicester City and Manchester City.
Looking Ahead: Algeria’s 2026 World Cup Ambitions
With qualification secured, Algeria turns its attention to building a squad capable of matching or exceeding its 2014 success. Petković’s tactical discipline—evident in Algeria’s controlled possession and zero goals conceded against Somalia—will be key, as will integrating young talent like Amoura with veterans such as Mahrez.
Fans are already dreaming big. On Facebook, posts about a potential group stage showdown with defending champions Argentina or host nation the U.S. gained thousands of shares. “2014 was special, but 2026 could be historic,” one user commented. “This team has the mix of skill and heart to go far.”
As celebrations continue across Algeria, the win over Somalia isn’t just a ticket to the World Cup—it’s a statement. After 12 years in the wilderness, Les Verts (The Greens) are back, and they’re ready to make their mark on soccer’s biggest stage.