Algeria came from behind to beat Jordan 2-1 in San Francisco and keep their FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout hopes alive. The victory eliminated World Cup debutants Jordan, who are now out of the tournament without earning a point.
Jordan produced a disciplined defensive display for much of the match and even took the lead in the first half. However, Algeria increased the pressure after the break and scored twice to complete an important comeback.
Jordan Shock Algeria With First-Half Goal
Jordan started brightly and almost scored within the opening minute when Nizar Al Rashdan headed just wide of the near post. Algeria quickly settled into the match and controlled possession. They created several opportunities, with Amine Gouiri dragging a low effort wide and Fares Chaibi seeing a shot blocked after a cut-back from Ibrahim Maza.
Veteran winger Riyad Mahrez, making his first World Cup start since 2014, nearly opened the scoring when he ran onto a long pass. However, Jordan goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila made an important save.
Despite Algeria’s dominance, Jordan struck first in the 36th minute. After Ramiz Zerrouki lost possession in midfield, Al Rashdan took advantage and curled a superb finish into the net with the outside of his right foot. The goal gave Jordan a surprising 1-0 lead heading into halftime.
Algeria Turn Up the Pressure
Algeria came out with greater urgency after the break and pushed hard for an equaliser. Abulaila continued to impress in goal. He pushed away a powerful long-range effort from Maza and later denied Nadhir Benbouali with a strong save from a header.
Jordan also threatened on the counterattack. Noor Al Rawabdeh came close to doubling the lead when he curled a shot narrowly wide from outside the penalty area.
Benbouali and Gouiri Complete the Comeback
Algeria's pressure finally paid off in the 69th minute. Mahrez delivered an excellent corner into the box, and Benbouali rose highest to guide a downward header into the corner of the net. The goal brought Algeria level and shifted momentum firmly in their favour. The North Africans continued to attack and found the winner eight minutes from time.
Another dangerous inswinging corner caused problems inside the Jordan penalty area. The ball bounced kindly for Gouiri, who reacted quickly and hooked it into the net to complete the turnaround. His goal secured a crucial victory and denied Jordan the chance to earn their first-ever World Cup point.
Algeria Stay in the Race
The win keeps Algeria's hopes of reaching the knockout rounds alive. After collecting three important points, they remain in contention heading into the final round of group matches.
Jordan, meanwhile, saw their World Cup campaign come to an end. Despite showing determination and defensive organisation, the debutants were unable to hold onto their lead and have now been eliminated from the tournament.
What Comes Next?
Algeria, currently third in Group J, will face second-placed Austria in Kansas City on Sunday in a match that could decide qualification for the knockout stage. Jordan will conclude their historic first World Cup campaign against group leaders Argentina in Dallas at the same time.