Algeria Battles Past Botswana in World Cup Qualifier
The night in Tizi Ouzou was full of intensity and drama as Algeria hosted Botswana in a crucial World Cup 2026 qualifier. The stakes were high: Algeria wanted to extend their lead at the top of Group G, while Botswana needed points to keep their hopes alive.
The match started with Algeria dominating possession, moving the ball around patiently and trying to open up spaces on the flanks. Mohamed Amoura was once again in the spotlight. Fresh off a recent hat-trick, he showed why he has become an essential figure for the national team. In the 33rd minute, Amoura rose above everyone inside the box to head home a cross from Ramy Bensebaïni, giving Algeria the early advantage. The stadium erupted, convinced that the Fennecs were on their way to a comfortable win.
Also Read:But football often refuses to follow the script. Just ten minutes later, Botswana struck back. From a well-placed free kick on the left side, Tebogo Kopelang was left unmarked at the far post. His finish was clinical, and suddenly the score was level at 1–1. The Algerian defense looked stunned, and the fans, moments before celebrating, now found themselves holding their breath.
The second half began with both sides showing determination. Algeria continued to push forward, but their attacks grew more disorganized as minutes passed. Botswana, on the other hand, seemed emboldened by their equalizer, holding their shape and waiting for opportunities to punish Algerian mistakes. The visitors even came close to snatching the lead when Mothusi Cooper unleashed a powerful strike that rattled the post.
Sensing that the momentum was slipping, coach Vladimir Petković turned to his bench. Riyad Mahrez, Houssem Aouar, and Amine Gouiri made way for fresh legs, including Baghdad Bounedjah and Youcef Belaïli. It was a gamble, but one that paid off quickly. In the 72nd minute, Mohamed Amoura delivered a precise cross from the right. Bounedjah, perfectly positioned, finished calmly to restore Algeria’s lead at 2–1. Relief swept across the stadium.
From that moment, Algeria managed the game better. Although not flawless, the team tightened up defensively and held onto their advantage until the final whistle. It wasn’t the most convincing performance, and at times, the Fennecs looked shaky. Yet, the victory was earned, and the three points were secured.
With this result, Algeria stayed firmly in control of their group, keeping a safe distance from their rivals. The journey toward the 2026 World Cup is far from over, but matches like this one underline both the strengths and the weaknesses of this new-look team. For coach Petković and his players, the message is clear: resilience and efficiency will be just as important as flair in the road ahead.
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