Algeria kept theirs FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout hopes to survive with an emphatic 2-1 win over Jordan in an important Group J clash on Monday night, overturning an early deficit with two second-half goals.The victory, held at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, was Algeria’s first World Cup victory since 2014 and ended Jordan’s campaign after two successive defeats.
Jordan strikes first but Algeria responds late
The two teams entered the tournament under pressure after losing the opening game, but it was Jordan who struck first against the game. In the 36th minute, Mousa Al Tamari’s effort fell sweetly into the box, allowing Nizar Al Rashdan to finish confidently with the outside of his right boot and register Jordan’s first World Cup goal.Algeria, however, grew into the game after the break and began to dominate possession and possession. Their hard work paid off in the 69th minute when substitute Nadhir Benbouali rose high to meet Riyad Mahrez’s corner, and headed into the net to complete the score.The balance changed for Algeria as the tide followed the attacks, with Jordan struggling to cope with the pressure.
Gouiri completes the switch as knock-out hopes remain alive
Algeria completed their comeback in the 82nd minute, taking the lead again. Amine Gouiri was quick inside the box when the ball came down after a corner, heading home from close range after a deflection to seal a vital 2-1 lead.The goal sparked celebrations among the Algerian players behind the goal, as the North African side held on late to secure the three crucial points.The victory is historic, marking Algeria’s first World Cup victory after conceding the first goal in the match, after failing to win in nine matches (seven defeats and two draws).The result also puts Algeria in the Round of 32. After an early 3-0 loss to Argentina, they now have three points in Group J and can finish second with a win over Austria in their last game.For Jordan, the defeat ensured elimination from their first World Cup, despite their efforts in both matches.Argentina leads the group with six points from two wins, while Austria is second with three points and a goal difference over Algeria, placing the final game in Group J.
