Simon Dalton presents his prediction for the 2026 World Cup Qualification match.
One of the favourites for the upcoming Africa Cup of Nations, Algeria resume their World Cup 2026 qualifying campaign with an away trip to Botswana. While the hosts still have a mathematical chance of finishing in the top two, the gap to nearest rivals Mozambique is already considerable.
Botswana
Botswana have conceded five goals in four matches, with only Somalia (9) allowing more in Group G. Against Uganda away (0:1), they failed to register a single shot on target. Even in their 3:1 win over Somalia, the match was statistically even (7–7 in attempts), showing a lack of dominance even against the group's weakest team. Friday's match will be the debut for coach Morena Ramoreboli, whose squad’s total market value is reportedly nearly 100 times lower than Algeria’s (€2 million vs €194 million).
Algeria
Algeria, under the guidance of experienced head coach Vladimir Petković, have enjoyed solid form over the past year, recording seven wins in their last ten matches. In the autumn, they breezed through qualification for the Africa Cup of Nations, scoring 16 goals in six games against Equatorial Guinea, Togo, and Liberia. Their squad includes the likes of Riyad Mahrez and Houssem Aouar, as well as Mohamed Amoura and Amine Gouiri, who combined for 6 goals and 3 assists in the CAF qualifiers.
Botswana vs Algeria Prediction
Botswana and Algeria last met twice in late 2019 and early 2021—Algeria won both matches, 1:0 and 5:0. With the disparity in squad depth, experience, and form, there’s no need to overcomplicate this one.
