FIFA World Cup Qualifiers: Algeria and Equatorial Guinea secure commanding victories

Algeria and Equatorial Guinea put up strong performances to secure victories over Botswana and Sao Tome and Principe respectively on Friday, 21 March in Match Day 5 of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers.

Below is a summary of the outcomes.

Group G: Botswana 1-3 Algeria

Goals: Kopelang (70') for Botswana; Gouiri (44'), Amoura (52', 74')

A convincing 3-1 victory on the road for Algeria over Botswana asserted their dominance in Group G of the FIFA World Cup qualifiers on Friday.

Vladimir Petkovic’s men took the lead just before halftime with Amine Gouiri’s goal (44'), rewarding an overall solid first half by the Algerians.

After the break, Mohamed Amoura doubled the lead with a well taken shot (52'), putting his team comfortably ahead. While Botswana pulled one back through Tebogo Kopelang, it was not enough for the Southern African nation to rattle the north Africans as they immediately regained the two-goal cushion thanks to another Amoura strike.  

This win helps Algeria solidify its position as group leaders with 12 points.

Group H: Equatorial Guinea 2-0 São Tomé and Príncipe
Goals: Nsue (14'), Salvador Edu (17')

Emilio Nsue marked his return to the national team in style with an impressive performance that contributed to a 2-0 win over Sao Tome and Principe.

The top scorer of the last TotalEnergies CAF Africa Cup of Nations with 5 goals, wasted no time showing his efficiency. In the 14th minute, the experienced forward opened the scoring with a precise shot, giving Equatorial Guinea an ideal start to the match.

Three minutes later, Salvador Edu doubled the lead to secure an impressive victory over the visitors.Despite several chances to extend the lead, Juan Micha’s men managed their advantage in the second half, securing a valuable victory that moves them up to 5th place in the group with 6 points.