Jordan’s FIFA World Cup 2026 journey came to an end on Tuesday after Algeria overturned a first-half deficit to secure a crucial 2-1 victory in Group J at San Francisco Bay Area Stadium.
The result keeps Algeria’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive, while Jordan become the first World Cup debutants eliminated from the tournament after suffering a second consecutive defeat.
Jordan entered the match looking for their first World Cup point and produced a disciplined display for much of the contest. Nizar Al Rashdan gave the underdogs the lead in the 36th minute after capitalising on a costly Algerian mistake. The midfielder finished neatly with the outside of his right foot following an assist from Mousa Al Tamari.
Al Rashdan’s goal continued his growing influence for Jordan during the tournament. The midfielder has been one of the team’s standout performers and delivered again in a high-pressure match despite the eventual defeat.
Algeria controlled possession throughout the opening half but struggled to convert their dominance into goals. Amine Gouiri, Ibrahim Maza and Riyad Mahrez all threatened, while goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila produced several important saves to frustrate the North Africans.
The momentum shifted after the break as Algeria increased the pressure.
Nadhir Benbouali, introduced at half-time, made an immediate impact. The forward headed home a Riyad Mahrez corner in the 69th minute to level the match.
Benbouali has now delivered one of Algeria’s most important goals of the tournament. His introduction transformed the attack and helped Algeria maintain relentless pressure against a tiring Jordan defence.
With eight minutes remaining, Algeria completed the turnaround. Another dangerous corner caused problems inside the penalty area before Amine Gouiri reacted quickest to hook the loose ball past Abulaila in the 82nd minute.
A VAR review checked the goal for offside before confirming the strike, sparking wild celebrations among Algerian players and supporters.
The victory lifts Algeria onto three points in Group J and keeps qualification within reach ahead of a decisive clash against Austria.
Meanwhile, the result officially confirms Argentina as Group J winners following their earlier victory over Austria.
Jordan will conclude their historic first World Cup campaign against Argentina, while Algeria face Austria knowing a positive result could still send them into the knockout rounds.
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