In a highly-anticipated clash of the CAF 2026 World Cup qualifiers, Mozambique is set to face Algeria at Estadio do Zimpeto on Sunday afternoon.
Both teams are riding on victories from their previous qualifiers and aim to secure a second consecutive qualifying win in their last competitive fixture of the year.
Match Preview:
Algeria secured an impressive 3-1 victory against Somalia’s Ocean Stars at the Nelson Mandela Stadium.
Despite a goal from Issa Abatari that reduced their lead, goals from Ahmed Abdi (own goal), Baghdad Bounedjah, and Islam Slimani sealed the win for Djamel Belmadi’s side.
Having won six of their last nine matches and unbeaten away from home this year, the Fennec Foxes are poised to continue their positive run against Mozambique, who faced a narrow 1-0 defeat in their previous encounter.
Mozambique, coming off a thrilling 3-2 win against Botswana, displayed their attacking prowess through goals from Clesio Bauque, Stanley Ratifo, and Jonathan Muiomo.
Chiquinho Conde’s side aims to maintain their unbeaten streak in their last five matches, aiming for back-to-back home victories.
Team News:
Islam Slimani is a potential starter for Algeria after his impactful performance off the bench. Yasser Larouci, who recently debuted, is expected to feature in the XI.
For Mozambique, Faisal Bangal faces uncertainty due to injury, potentially paving the way for Stanley Ratifo to feature prominently if Bangal is unfit.
Predicted Lineups:
Mozambique Possible Starting Lineup:(4-4-2)
Siluane;
Nene, Domingues, Langa, Macandza;
Bauque, Amadu, Dove, Guimaraes;
Ratifo, Vilanculos
Algeria Possible Starting Lineup:(4-4-2)
Mandrea;
Atal, Tougai, Zerrouki, Larouci;
Aouar, Mandi, Chaibi, Gouiri;
Mahrez, Slimani
Prediction:
Algeria is anticipated to dominate the match with a convincing 4-1 victory, capitalizing on their recent form, despite Mozambique’s resilience in recent fixtures.