2026 WCQ: Botswana break through late to overcome Somalia

Somalia proved to be a difficult opponent once again but hosts Botswana found two second half goals for a 2-0 victory in Group G action from 2026 FIFA World Cup qualifying. Gape Mohutsiwa's header broke the Somalian resistance before Mothusi Johnson scored directly from a corner kick for the Zebras who move back into contention in Group G.

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It was not easy for the hosts who needed the intervention of goalkeeper Goitseone Phoko to prevent Somalia from scoring early through Ali Musse. The hosts controlled play but struggled to create clear opportunities while the Ocean Boys remained dangerous on the counter-attack. Star forward Tumisang Orebonye was also forced off with an apparent muscle injury in the first half.

But the Zebras continued to charge and it was Algeria-based midfielder Mohutsiwa who provided the decisive moment in the 74th minute when his header looped in off the crossbar from a cross by Tsepho Keselebale.

Botswana put the match away nine minutes later. Attacking left back Mothusi Johnson whipped in a corner kick from the right wing that came towards goal. With a group of players screening the vision of Somalia goalkeeper Abdirahman Mamaan, the ball bounced past the crowd and nestled inside the far post for an "Olimpico" goal.

Botswana move back level with Uganda on nine points, good for third place in Group G and three points behind second placed Mozambique.

Group G Table (6 matches played)

• The group winners qualify for the 2026 FIFA World Cup.

• Four of the nine group runners-up qualify for a playoff to determine Africa's representative at the intercontinental qualifying playoff.