Algeria U17s reach world cup after dramatic CAN draw

Algeria’s U17 national team booked a place in both the quarterfinals of the 2026 Africa Cup of Nations and the FIFA U17 World Cup in dramatic fashion Wednesday night, advancing after a rare draw of lots with Ghana.

Despite a 2-1 defeat to Senegal in their final Group D clash, Algeria finished level with Ghana on points, goal difference, and goals scored, forcing tournament organizers to decide qualification by lottery under CAF regulations.

The young Algerians struck first through Mekkaoui in the fifth minute before Senegal turned the match around with goals from Dieng and Faye. Ghana meanwhile defeated South Africa 3-1, creating a perfect deadlock between the two sides.

Luck ultimately favored Algeria, sending the Greens through alongside group leaders Senegal and securing their ticket to the 2026 FIFA U17 World Cup in Qatar.