Match Report
Algeria staged a dramatic second-half comeback to beat debutants Jordan 2-1 at Levi's Stadium, eliminating the Asian side from the World Cup with a match to spare and reviving their own knockout hopes. Substitute Nadhir Benbouali and Amine Gouiri struck from set-pieces to cancel out Nizar Al-Rashdan’s first-half opener, ensuring Algeria moved level on three points with Austria in Group J.
The result also confirmed defending champions Argentina as group winners, meaning Jordan, who lost their opener to Austria, cannot progress regardless of their final match against the holders.
How the Game Unfolded
Algeria coach Vladimir Petkovic restored Riyad Mahrez to the starting XI and the veteran winger was immediately influential. He spurned an early chance when he miscontrolled Hicham Boudaoui’s lofted pass, then forced a sharp save from goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila after racing through on goal.
Jordan, disciplined in defence and dangerous on the counter, took the lead in the 36th minute. A turnover by Ramiz Zerrouki allowed Musa al-Taamari to feed Al-Rashdan, who drilled a first-time finish into the bottom corner.
Second-Half Turnaround
Petkovic introduced Nabil Bentaleb and Benbouali at half-time, and Algeria’s intensity lifted. The equaliser arrived in the 69th minute when Benbouali rose highest to glance Mahrez’s corner into the net. Then, eight minutes from time, substitute Anis Hadj Moussa delivered another corner, and a deflection off Al-Rashdan allowed Gouiri to poke home the winner from close range.
Historical Ghosts and Next Steps
The victory sets up a grudge match against Austria in Kansas City, 44 years after the “Disgrace of Gijon”, when West Germany and Austria were accused of colluding to eliminate Algeria at the 1982 World Cup. Algeria will have a chance for a symbolic measure of revenge while seeking the win that would likely secure a place in the round of 32. Jordan, meanwhile, face the daunting task of taking on Lionel Messi and Argentina in their final group fixture.
Key Takeaways
- Algeria’s substitutes changed the game, with Benbouali and Gouiri scoring from set-pieces to complete the comeback.
- Jordan’s World Cup debut ends in elimination with a game to spare; they will finish bottom of Group J.
- Argentina are confirmed as group winners, avoiding the tense final matchday drama.
- The upcoming Algeria-Austria clash carries historical weight from the 1982 tournament.
- Riyad Mahrez’s recall proved pivotal, with his creativity from wide areas causing constant problems.
Quick Facts
Final Score: Jordan 1–2 Algeria
Goal Scorers: Al-Rashdan (36'); Benbouali (69'), Gouiri (82')
Venue: Levi's Stadium, San Francisco
Group J Standings: Argentina (6 pts, Q), Algeria (3), Austria (3), Jordan (0, eliminated)
Next Fixtures: Algeria vs. Austria; Jordan vs. Argentina (both June 27)