World Cup 2026 (Q) - Algeria: FIFA unveils the men in black (Official) | OneFootball

World Cup 2026 (Q): Algeria learns its referees (Official)

World Cup 2026 (Q) - Algeria: FIFA unveils the men in black (Official)

The stage is set: FIFA has appointed the match officials for Algeria’s last two qualifying fixtures as they top Group G with 19 points. On Thursday, October 9th at 5 p.m., the Miloud-Hadefi Stadium in Oran will be the battleground for a high-stakes clash against bottom-placed Somalia. Malawian referee Godfrey Phillip Nkhakananga will take charge, assisted by Clemence Kanduku and Pondamali Tembo, with David Chinoko as fourth official. Beyond the names, the equation is simple: a win, and the Fennecs punch their ticket to the finals, returning to football’s grandest stage, which they graced in 1982, 1986, 2010, and 2014. Oran promises a charged atmosphere, but composure will be key: start strong, control transitions, and avoid reckless challenges that could derail a match Algeria must aim to wrap up without danger.

Five days later, on Tuesday, October 14th at 5 p.m., a new setting and new cast: the Hocine Aït-Ahmed Stadium in Tizi-Ouzou will host the final matchday against Uganda. FIFA has handed the whistle to a Mauritian quartet led by Emtehaz Heeralall, supported by Teeluck Aswet and Jean-Marc Jeff Pithia, with Jean Brandy Stevie Baillache as fourth official. Whatever the outcome in Oran, Tizi-Ouzou will demand the same discipline: manage difficult moments, be sharp on set pieces, and remain composed in the danger zone.

Qualification within reach, standards to uphold

The math is clear: one victory is enough to secure a ticket to North America 2026. But the shortest path is still the hardest one. The early appointment of referees brings a sense of calm, provided it’s used as motivation, not as an excuse. It’s up to Vladimir Petkovic’s men to turn their lead on the table into dominance on the pitch, dictate the tempo instead of following their opponents, and fully embrace their role as group leaders waiting to seal their supremacy.

The story is within grasp: Oran could be the scene of deliverance, Tizi-Ouzou the crowning moment. Between these two stops, Algeria holds its destiny. If the Fennecs get the job done against Somalia, the final fixture becomes a chance to set the standard, solidify their confidence, and show the world their identity. Qualification isn’t claimed—it’s earned on the scoreboard. The referees are set, the dates are known; all that’s left is to write the next chapter, in capital letters.