Blida, Algeria – Hosts Algeria continued their strong form in World Cup warm-up matches, securing a second consecutive 2-0 victory over Rwanda in Blida on Monday. The win completes an international window double over the Amavubi, boosting Algerian confidence as they look towards the 2026 World Cup qualifiers.
After Berkane Redouane missed an early penalty, Adil Boulbina broke the deadlock for the Desert Foxes in the 40th minute, putting Algeria in front. Substitute Naoufel Khacef then sealed the victory with a second goal in the 71st minute, ensuring a comfortable win for the home side.
Algeria currently holds a three-point lead over Mozambique in their 2026 World Cup qualifying group. Victories in their upcoming September fixtures, at home against Botswana and away to Guinea, would significantly enhance their prospects of making a fifth appearance at the prestigious tournament.
Rwanda, who have never qualified for a World Cup, remain second in their respective qualifying section, trailing leaders South Africa by five points with four matchdays remaining.
In other international friendly action, Uganda salvaged some pride after a heavy defeat to Cameroon last week by drawing 1-1 with The Gambia in Berrechid, Morocco. Rogers Mato opened the scoring for Uganda in the 25th minute, but Alasana Manneh of Scottish Premiership club Hibernian equalized for The Gambia from the penalty spot in first-half added time.
Meanwhile, in Pristina, Kosovo delivered an impressive performance, defeating the Comoros 4-2. Sparta Prague striker Albion Rrahmani was the star of the show, bagging a hat-trick, while Fisnik Asllani added another goal to complete Kosovo’s scoring. Said Bakari had given the Comoros an early lead, and Rafiki Said also found the net for the Indian Ocean nation.
Written By Rodney Mbua
