Algeria edge Jordan to keep World Cup knockout hopes alive
A second-half comeback against Jordan leaves Algeria level on points with Austria, setting up a decisive final group fixture on Saturday.
Algeria have maintained their path to the knockout stages of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after overturning a deficit to defeat Jordan 2-1 in Group J. The result condemns Jordan to an early exit from the tournament while leaving Algeria in a position where their final group match will determine their progression.
Jordan took the lead in the 36th minute through Nizar Al-Rashdan, who capitalised on a defensive error to finish low into the corner. Despite absorbing sustained pressure from the Algerian side, the Jordanian defence held firm until the second half, when the momentum shifted rapidly.
Algeria equalised in the 69th minute when substitute Nadhir Benbouali headed home a corner taken by Riyad Mahrez. The breakthrough came within a 13-minute window that also saw Amine Gouiri secure the victory by prodding in a loose ball eight minutes from time.
The outcome reshapes the Group J landscape, with Algeria moving into third place on three points, level with second-placed Austria. In a concurrent fixture earlier on Monday, Argentina defeated Austria 2-0 to top the group with six points. Lionel Messi scored twice in that match, becoming the all-time leading scorer in men's World Cup history with 17 goals.
Algeria’s final group stage match is scheduled against Austria on Saturday, a fixture that will be decisive for their tournament standing. Jordan will conclude their campaign against Argentina.
