Fédération Algérienne de Football

2019 Africa Cup Winners • CAF Qualified

Qualification Journey

Algeria secured their return to the FIFA World Cup after a 12-year absence with a commanding 3-0 victory over Somalia at the Miloud Hadefi Stadium in Oran on October 9, 2025. The Desert Foxes’ triumph, achieved in front of 40,000 passionate supporters, marked their sixth World Cup qualification and signaled the resurgence of Algerian football on the global stage after missing the 2018 and 2022 tournaments.

The qualification campaign was marked by several key achievements:

• Unbeaten run through CAF Group G qualification
• Dominant performances both home and away
• Mohamed Amoura emerging as the team’s top scorer
• Riyad Mahrez’s inspirational leadership as captain
• Vladimir Petkovic’s tactical masterclass throughout the campaign

Match Analysis: Algeria 3-0 Somalia

The qualification-clinching victory over Somalia was a display of clinical efficiency and tactical superiority. Playing at the Miloud Hadefi Stadium in Oran (as Somalia’s home venue), Algeria took control from the opening whistle. Mohamed Amoura opened the scoring in just the 6th minute, heading home from a pinpoint Riyad Mahrez cross at the back post, setting the tone for what would become a memorable evening for Algerian football.

Captain Riyad Mahrez doubled the lead in the 19th minute with a stunning strike, meeting a cross from Hadjam and rifling the ball into the top corner. The Manchester City winger was in inspired form, orchestrating Algeria’s attacks with precision and flair. Amoura completed his brace in the 57th minute, rising above the Somalia defense to head home another Mahrez cross, sealing a comprehensive victory that sent the Desert Foxes back to football’s biggest stage.

CAF Group G Campaign Excellence

Algeria’s path to the 2026 World Cup was characterized by consistency and dominance throughout the CAF Group G qualifying process. Under the guidance of Swiss coach Vladimir Petkovic, the Desert Foxes topped their group with an impressive record, maintaining a four-point cushion over second-placed Uganda. The campaign showcased Algeria’s tactical evolution and the successful integration of experienced stars with emerging talents.

The team’s qualification journey included memorable victories, such as their opening 3-1 win over Somalia in November 2023, crucial away performances against Uganda and Guinea, and the ability to control matches through possession-based football. Algeria’s defensive organization proved equally impressive, conceding minimal goals throughout the campaign while their attack, led by Amoura and Mahrez, provided the cutting edge needed in crucial moments.

Squad Evolution and Key Players

The current Algerian squad represents a successful blend of experienced internationals and promising young talents. Riyad Mahrez continues to be the team’s talisman and captain, providing leadership, creativity, and crucial goals throughout the qualification campaign. His performance against Somalia, with two assists and a goal, epitomized his importance to the team’s success and his determination to lead Algeria back to the World Cup.

Mohamed Amoura has emerged as Algeria’s breakout star, finishing as the team’s top scorer in qualifying with his clinical finishing and intelligent movement. The Union Saint-Gilloise striker’s brace against Somalia highlighted his growing importance to the national team. In midfield, the experience of Nabil Bentaleb and Houssem Boudaoui provided the perfect balance, while the defensive unit, marshaled by Aissa Mandi and Ramy Bensebaini, offered the solidity needed for a successful campaign.

Tactical Approach and Playing Style

Under Vladimir Petkovic’s stewardship, Algeria has developed a flexible tactical system that combines possession-based football with quick transitions and high pressing. The team’s ability to control matches through patient build-up play, combined with the pace and creativity of their attacking players, has made them one of Africa’s most formidable sides. The 3-0 victory over Somalia showcased this approach perfectly, with Algeria dominating possession and creating numerous chances.

The Desert Foxes typically operate in a 4-3-3 formation that allows for fluid movement between positions, with wingers cutting inside to create overloads and full-backs providing width. This tactical flexibility has been crucial in breaking down defensive opponents while also allowing Algeria to adapt their approach against more attacking teams. The emphasis on technical ability and tactical discipline has created a team capable of competing with the world’s best.

Looking Ahead to 2026 World Cup

The 2026 FIFA World Cup presents Algeria with an opportunity for redemption after missing the last two tournaments. Having last appeared in 2014, where they reached the Round of 16 for the first time in their history, the Desert Foxes will be eager to build on that achievement. The expanded 48-team format provides additional opportunities for progression, and with the tournament being held across North America, Algeria’s significant diaspora community in the region will provide valuable support.

The experience gained by players competing in top European leagues, combined with the tactical acumen of Petkovic and the leadership of Mahrez, positions Algeria as a potential dark horse for the tournament. The team’s blend of technical ability, tactical discipline, and mental resilience developed during qualifying suggests they could make a significant impact in 2026. The emergence of young talents like Ibrahim Maza alongside established stars creates optimism for Algeria’s World Cup prospects.

This qualification marks Algeria’s sixth appearance in the FIFA World Cup, following their participations in 1982, 1986, 1990, 2010, and 2014. The Desert Foxes’ best performance came in 2014 when they reached the Round of 16, and they will be looking to match or exceed that achievement in the expanded 2026 tournament.