Match Report
Algeria mounted a stirring second-half turnaround to defeat World Cup debutants Jordan 2-1 on Monday, eliminating the Asian side and breathing life into their own 2026 tournament campaign. Trailing to Nizar Al Rashdan's first-time strike at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, the two-time AFCON champions scored twice from corners to secure a crucial victory.
Jordan, playing in their first-ever World Cup, took a shock lead in the 36th minute when Al Rashdan's outside-of-the-boot effort beat Luca Zidane, the son of French legend Zinedine. The goal had the African side reeling, and they failed to muster a response before the interval.
But Algeria emerged transformed after the break, and their pressure told when substitute Nadhir Benbouali rose to head home a Riyad Mahrez corner in the 69th minute. With Jordan visibly tiring, Algeria pushed for a winner, and it arrived in the 82nd minute. Another Mahrez delivery was knocked down, and Amine Gouiri prodded in from close range. The goal survived a VAR check for offside, sparking wild celebrations among the Algerian bench.
"We showed great character to come back. The changes at half-time were key, and the players executed our set-piece plans perfectly," said Algeria's coach after the match.
The victory moved Algeria level on points with Austria ahead of their decisive group finale in Kansas City on Sunday. Jordan, eliminated after back-to-back defeats, will face three-time champions Argentina in their final match.
What It Means
The result confirmed Argentina as winners of Group J, with the holders set to face the Group H runners-up, currently Uruguay, in the round of 32 on July 3. Algeria and Austria, both on three points, will battle for the group's other knockout berth in a match that could see the pair settle for a draw if it suits both.
For Jordan, the dream of a first World Cup point will have to wait until their final fixture against Lionel Messi's Argentina in Dallas. The debutants have shown spirit, particularly in the first half here, but their lack of experience at this level was exposed late on.
Quick Facts
Result: Jordan 1–2 Algeria
Goals: Al Rashdan (36'); Benbouali (69'), Gouiri (82')
Venue: Levi's Stadium, Santa Clara
Competition: 2026 FIFA World Cup, Group J
Attendance: Not published
Player of the Match: Riyad Mahrez (Algeria)
Key Takeaways
- Algeria's fighting spirit keeps them in contention for the last 32, setting up a do-or-die clash with Austria.
- Jordan's maiden World Cup voyage ends in heartbreak after two defeats, but they have another shot at glory against Argentina.
- Set-pieces proved the difference—both Algerian goals came from corners delivered by captain Riyad Mahrez.
- Argentina seal the group's top spot without kicking a ball, awaiting the runner-up from Group H.
- Goalkeeper Luca Zidane recovered from an early error to make crucial saves and preserve the win.
Source: Sky Sports
