Algeria were held to a 0-0 draw by Guinea on Monday in the 2026 World Cup qualifiers, a result that keeps Vladimir Petkovic’s side on top of Group G but delays their official ticket to the finals until October.
The match, played at the Mohammed V Stadium in Casablanca, Morocco, was designated as Guinea’s home fixture due to a lack of suitable sporting infrastructure in Conakry.
Such relocations have become increasingly common in African qualifiers, with several teams opting to stage their “home” matches abroad to guarantee better playing conditions and security.
On neutral ground, Algeria dominated possession but failed to break down Guinea’s organised defence. Clear opportunities were scarce throughout the game, and when they did arise, the finishing lacked precision.
Mohammed Amoura squandered two promising chances, while captain Riyad Mahrez was unable to impose his usual influence on the match.
Despite the frustration, the Fennecs remain in control of their destiny. With 19 points and a goal difference of +11, Algeria hold a four-point advantage over nearest challengers Uganda and Mozambique, with just two matches left to play. One victory from those fixtures will be enough to secure qualification for the finals in the United States, Canada and Mexico.
Algeria’s next opportunity comes against Somalia on 8 October, a match where three points would seal their place and prevent a potentially decisive final clash away to Uganda.
However, concerns persist about the team’s attacking shortcomings. The display against Guinea mirrored the lacklustre performance recently seen against Botswana, underlining weaknesses in creativity and finishing. Analysts warn that such deficiencies could prove costly against stronger opponents on the world stage.
Still, with experience, depth and a cushion at the top of Group G, Algeria’s hopes of securing a seventh World Cup appearance remain firmly within reach. The October fixtures will now determine whether the Fennecs can finish the job and book their place among football’s elite.
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