Algeria has secured its place at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking their return to the global stage for the first time since 2014. The Desert Warriors clinched their qualification with a dominant 3-0 victory over Somalia on Thursday in Oran.

The match, played at the Miloud Hadefi Stadium, which served as Somalia's temporary home ground, saw Algeria take control early on. Mohamed Amoura opened the scoring in the seventh minute, volleying home a cross from Riyad Mahrez. Mahrez then doubled the lead with a well-placed shot into the top corner. Amoura completed his brace in the 58th minute, heading home another assist from Mahrez.

This victory ensures Algeria's place at the top of Group G in the African qualifiers, giving them an unassailable lead. Algeria's qualification makes them the fourth African nation to secure a spot at the 2026 World Cup, joining Morocco, Tunisia, and Egypt.

Algeria, a long-standing powerhouse in African football, last appeared at the World Cup in 2014 in Brazil, where they reached the Round of 16. In that tournament, they notably pushed eventual champions Germany to extra time in a narrow 2-1 defeat. After failing to qualify for the 2018 and 2022 editions, their return to the World Cup is a significant achievement.

The 2026 World Cup, which will be co-hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada, will be historic, featuring 48 teams for the first time. Nine group winners from across the continent will qualify directly, with the four best runners-up competing in play-offs for an intercontinental spot.

In other Group G matches, Uganda took a significant step towards securing second place with a 1-0 win over Botswana. Jude Ssemugabi's header secured the win for Uganda, who will face Algeria in their final group game. Meanwhile, Mozambique's hopes were dented by a 2-1 home defeat against Guinea.

Currently, 20 nations worldwide have confirmed their place at the tournament.