Algeria held its own FIFA World Cup 2026 elimination hopes remain firmly alive with a spirited 2-1 comeback win over Jordan in a crucial Group J clash on Monday night, overturning an early deficit with two second-half goals.The victory, secured at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium, marked Algeria’s first World Cup victory since 2014 and also ended Jordan’s debut campaign after two consecutive defeats.
Jordan strikes first but Algeria responds late
Both sides entered the contest under pressure after losses in the opening match, but it was Jordan who struck first against the run of play. In the 36th minute, Mousa Al Tamari’s effort fell gently into the box, allowing Nizar Al Rashdan to confidently finish 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 territory. His persistence finally paid off in the 69th minute when substitute Nadhir Benbouali rose high to meet Riyad Mahrez’s corner, powering a header into the net to level the scores.The equalizer swung the momentum firmly in Algeria’s favor as wave after wave of attacks followed, with Jordan struggling to contain the pressure.
Gouiri completes the turnaround as knockout hopes remain alive
Algeria completed their comeback in the 82nd minute, once again capitalizing on a set-piece situation. Amine Gouiri reacted quickest in the box as the ball dropped following another corner, heading home from close range after a deflection to seal a crucial 2-1 lead.The goal sparked celebrations among Algeria supporters behind the goal, with the North African side holding on in the closing stages to secure a vital three points.The victory has historic significance, marking Algeria’s first World Cup win after conceding the opening goal in a match, having failed to win any of their nine such matches (seven defeats and two draws).The result also keeps Algeria in contention for a spot in the Round of 32. After an opening 3-0 defeat to Argentina, they are now sitting on three points in Group J and can still finish second with a win over Austria in their final group game.For Jordan, the defeat confirmed elimination from their first World Cup appearance, despite a spirited effort in both games.Argentina lead the group with six points from two wins, while Austria sit second on three points with a superior goal difference over Algeria, setting up a tense final round in Group J.
