Botswana Aims to Shock Algeria in FIFA World Cup Qualifiers

Botswana is poised to challenge Algeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers, aiming for their third win. The match will take place on Friday at 3:00 PM CAT in Francistown. Botswana currently holds a four-match unbeaten streak, while Algeria leads Group G after maintaining a seven-match unbeaten run. Historical meetings suggest a competitive edge for Algeria, having won both prior encounters.

Botswana aims to secure their third victory in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers as they face Algeria this Friday at 3:00 PM CAT. The match, part of Group G, will take place at the Obed Itani Chilume Stadium in Francistown, Botswana’s second-largest city. Currently, Botswana is experiencing a four-match unbeaten streak in all competitions, recently drawing 1-1 with Egypt in the 2025 AFCON qualifier.

As of now, Botswana occupies the third position in Group G, trailing leaders Algeria by three points and sitting behind Mozambique. Head coach Morena Ramoreboli emphasized the importance of including goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko, stating, “Kabelo Dambe and Phoko were key in our qualifying for AFCON, and we believe his return is crucial for competition.”

On the other hand, Algeria is enjoying a robust seven-match unbeaten streak across competitions, bolstered by a significant 5-1 victory over Liberia in the 2025 AFCON qualifier. As Group G leaders, a win against Botswana would further solidify Algeria’s quest for their fifth World Cup appearance.

Despite some injury challenges, Goitseone Phoko remains in the latest Zebras squad. Meanwhile, Algeria has adapted their squad, reintegrating goalkeeper Sohaib Nair due to injuries among players, according to head coach Vladimir Petkovic: “It’s now time to introduce Sohaib Nair.\”

Historically, Botswana and Algeria have clashed twice, with Algeria triumphing in both encounters, the latest being a comprehensive 5-0 in the 2021 AFCON qualifier held in Blida.

The upcoming match between Botswana and Algeria in the 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifiers holds significant implications for both teams. With Botswana seeking to solidify their performance amid a positive streak, and Algeria striving to maintain their leverage at the top of the standings, the April 4 encounter is anticipated to be an exciting showdown. Botswana’s squad changes and Algeria’s consistent lineup fortify the competitive edge of this fixture.

Original Source: africanfootball.com