In a thrilling encounter on Monday at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, Algeria pulled off a remarkable comeback to secure a 2-1 victory over Jordan in their second match of Group J at the 2026 World Cup.
The match initially favored Jordan, with N. Al Rashdan breaking the deadlock in the 36th minute. Despite the setback, Algeria dominated the game, boasting 72% possession, taking 17 shots compared to Jordan's eight, and earning nine corners to Jordan's one.
The turning point came after halftime. Algeria made two strategic substitutions at the start of the second half, with R. Zerrouki, who received a yellow card just before, and H. Boudaoui making way for N. Bentaleb and N. Benbouali. These changes rejuvenated Algeria's offensive play.
Benbouali quickly justified his inclusion by leveling the score in the 69th minute. He headed in a corner from Riyad Mahrez, thus restoring parity in a match that seemed challenging to turn around.
The decisive goal came in the 82nd minute when Amine Gouiri found the back of the net from inside the box, sealing Algeria's victory at 2-1. Gouiri was substituted shortly after, in the 86th minute, by Z. Belaid.
Riyad Mahrez, a key figure for Algeria, was replaced by A. Hadj Moussa in the 76th minute, having contributed significantly to the equalizer.
As for disciplinary actions, each team received a yellow card: Zerrouki for Algeria in the 44th minute and H. Abu Dahab for Jordan in the 64th minute.
With this win, Algeria earned three points, positioning themselves third in Group J, tied with Austria—who are second—but with an inferior goal difference (-2 compared to 0). Argentina leads the group with six points after two victories.
Conversely, Jordan has been mathematically eliminated from the tournament, having no points and a goal difference of -3 over two matches. They previously lost 3-1 to Austria, with Ali Olwan scoring Jordan's historic first World Cup goal in that defeat.
Returning to the World Cup after a 12-year hiatus since Brazil 2014, Algeria still has a chance to advance as one of the top eight third-placed teams, thanks to the new 48-team format. Their fate will be decided in a crucial match against Austria on June 27 at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City.
Key Insights and Stats from Algeria vs. Jordan Match
How did Algeria manage to win against Jordan?
Algeria secured their victory by making strategic halftime substitutions that revitalized their offense, allowing them to overturn a 1-0 deficit with goals from N. Benbouali and Amine Gouiri.
What are Algeria's chances of advancing in the World Cup?
Algeria still has a chance to progress as one of the top eight third-placed teams. Their upcoming match against Austria will be crucial in determining their fate in the tournament.
What was significant about Jordan's performance in the World Cup?
Despite their elimination, Jordan made history by scoring their first-ever World Cup goal in a match against Austria, showcasing significant progress for the team on the international stage.