Algeria have officially become the 20th nation to qualify for the FIFA 2026 World Cup, joining an elite list of confirmed participants for next year’s expanded tournament.
The Desert Foxes secured their place in emphatic fashion, defeating Somalia 3–0 to book a long-awaited return to the global stage.
Captain Riyad Mahrez inspired the victory with a goal and an assist, leading by example as Algeria confirmed their qualification in style.
This marks Algeria’s first World Cup appearance since Brazil 2014, where they memorably reached the Round of 16 before falling to eventual champions Germany after extra time.
With their qualification, Algeria become the fourth African nation to seal a ticket to the 2026 finals, following Egypt, Morocco, and Tunisia. Egypt earlier booked their spot after a 3–0 win over Djibouti, with Mohamed Salah netting twice to send the Pharaohs to their fourth World Cup.
Five African places remain up for grabs, with decisive fixtures scheduled for later in October.
The 2026 FIFA World Cup will be co-hosted by Canada, Mexico, and the United States from 11 June to 19 July 2026, marking the first 48-team edition in history.
Across other confederations, Asia will be represented by Australia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, South Korea, and Uzbekistan—with Uzbekistan and Jordan making their World Cup debuts.
New Zealand have claimed Oceania’s sole automatic berth, while Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, and Uruguay have already sealed their places from South America.
In total, 20 of the 48 available slots have now been filled, with 28 more—including two intercontinental play-off spots to be decided in March 2026—still open.
Teams Qualified So Far:
Hosts: Canada, Mexico, United States
Asia: Australia, Iran, Japan, Jordan, South Korea, Uzbekistan
Oceania: New Zealand
South America: Argentina, Brazil, Colombia, Ecuador, Paraguay, Uruguay
Africa: Algeria, Egypt, Morocco, Tunisia
