Amoura-inspired Algeria Outsmart Botswana

Algeria emerged as 3-1 winners over Botswana in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifier played at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown on Friday afternoon.

As a result, the Desert Foxes moved to the top of the G standings - level on points with second-placed Mozambique. The North African giants will be targeting another win when they host Mozambique on 25 March.

The Zebras, on the other hand, moved down to the fourth spot after registering their third defeat in Group G. The Southern African side will be keen to ensure that Botswana return to winning ways when they host Somalia on 25 March.

The deadlock was broken by the Desert Foxes when Amine Gouiri headed home Hicham Boudaouis cross in the 44th minute. Algeria were leading 1-0 at the interval thanks to the Olympique Marseille strikers goal fifth goal for the Desert Foxes.

Gouiri became the provider after the restart as the 25-year-old played a delightful through pass for Mohamed Amoura, who made no mistake as he fired past on-rushing goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko to hand Algeria a 1-0 lead in the 52nd minute.