Algeria kept their World Cup campaign alive after coming from behind to beat Jordan 2-1, a result that also ended the debutants’ hopes of progressing beyond the group stage.
Jordan struck first in the 36th minute through Nizar Al Rashdan, who finished calmly after Mousa Al Tamari’s miscue sent the ball into his path inside the box. Despite Algeria enjoying more of the ball, they went into the break trailing after a disciplined defensive showing from Jordan.
The turnaround came after the restart as Algeria increased the pressure and eventually broke through in the 69th minute. Nadhir Benbouali rose highest to head in from a corner, restoring parity and shifting momentum firmly in their favour.
Jordan held on as long as they could but were undone again from a set piece late on. Amine Gouiri reacted quickest to a loose ball in the box to tuck home the winner in the 82nd minute, sealing a comeback that proved decisive in Group J.
The defeat confirmed Jordan’s elimination after two matches, while Algeria now head into their final group game with renewed confidence.
Algeria forward Ibrahim Maza said the side believed they controlled large parts of the match despite going behind. “It was a very hard game. They were leading 1-0 but we had the upper hand the whole game, that was my feeling. At half time we spoke that now we have to do even more, but we have to be patient still as we had the ball nearly the whole time. Then we scored two nice goals and won the game. We are very happy. I think these three points will help us in the next game, will motivate us a lot. We have confidence now to go to the next game.”
Defender Aissa Mandi added that set pieces made the difference in breaking down a compact Jordan side. “We know it’s very tough to play against such a defensive block. We gave it our all, tried everything, and were rewarded with two set pieces that we had practiced. We wanted to put that loss to Argentina behind us. I am really proud of the team. When you win a World Cup match, you have to appreciate it.”
