Algeria’s “Greens” Triumph Over Uganda, Closing Their 2026 World Cup Qualifiers in Style
BY: Dr. Hana Saada
Already assured of qualification, Algeria’s national football team capped off its 2026 World Cup qualifying campaign in spectacular fashion, securing a 2–1 victory over Uganda on Tuesday evening at a packed Hocine Aït Ahmed Stadium in Tizi Ouzou, where over 40,000 supporters gathered to celebrate the team’s long-awaited return among the global football elite after twelve years.
This victory holds particular importance for Les Fennecs, as it not only enhances their FIFA ranking—which will influence the upcoming draw on December 5 in Washington—but also reaffirms their position as undisputed leaders of Group G in the African qualifiers.
Tactical Shifts and a Shaky Start
National coach Vladimir Petković introduced four changes to his starting eleven compared to the previous match against Somalia. Luca Zidane replaced Alexis Guendouz as goalkeeper, while the defensive line—Aïssa Mandi, Ramy Bensebaïni, Rafik Belghali, and Jaouen Hadjam—remained intact. In midfield, Ibrahim Maza and Adem Zorgane, returning after a brief absence, took over from Farès Chaibi and Nabil Bentaleb. Up front, Amine Gouiri started in place of the injured Baghdad Bounedjah, joining Riyad Mahrez and the electric Mohamed Amine Amoura in attack.
However, the evening began with an unexpected setback. Just six minutes into the match, Steven Mukwala capitalized on a misplaced pass by Hichem Boudaoui, slotting the ball past Luca Zidane to give Uganda a shocking early lead. Momentarily stunned, the Algerian side regrouped and launched relentless attacks, yet found Salim Omar Magoola, the Ugandan goalkeeper, in superb form. Amoura (17’), Mahrez (25’), and even Mandi (45’+2)—whose header struck the post—couldn’t find the breakthrough before halftime.
Amoura Delivers Again
In the second half, Petković’s tactical adjustments paid dividends. The introductions of Mehdi Dorval, Samir Chergui, and Anis Hadj Moussa in the 67th minute reinvigorated Algeria’s offense. The Ugandans, visibly fatigued, were soon pinned deep in their half. Algeria’s persistence finally bore fruit in the closing stages: Amoura, once again the team’s hero, converted two penalties in the 81st and 90’+8 minutes, sealing a dramatic comeback and extinguishing Uganda’s hopes of clinching a playoff spot.
A Night of Celebration and National Pride
Following the final whistle, the stadium erupted into a spectacle of music, flags, and jubilation, marking Algeria’s historic qualification for the 2026 World Cup. The players joined fans in a moment of shared pride and emotion, a fitting tribute to their resilience and unity throughout the campaign.
With qualification secured, the Greens now set their sights on the 2025 Africa Cup of Nations in Morocco, scheduled from December 21 to January 18, aiming to extend their triumphant momentum on the continental stage.
