Algeria retains them fifa world cup Hopes of a 2026 knockout spot remain unwavering as the team overturned an early deficit with two second-half set-pieces to beat Jordan 2-1 in a crucial Group J match on Monday night.The victory at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium marked Algeria’s first victory at the World Cup since 2014 and ended Jordan’s debut after two consecutive defeats.
Jordan attacks first, but Algeria responds late
Both sides came into the game under pressure after losing their first game, but Jordan struck first in the game. In the 36th minute, Moussa Al Tamari’s shot landed in the penalty area, and Nizar Al Rashdan confidently shot with the outside of his right foot to give Jordan the lead for the first time in the World Cup.However, Algeria gradually settled into the game after the break and began to dominate possession and territory. Their persistence finally paid off in the 69th minute when substitute Nadhir Benbouali equalized with a header from Riyad Mahrez’s corner kick.The momentum for the equalizer shifted firmly in Algeria’s favour, with wave after wave of attacks ensuing as Jordan struggled to contain the pressure.
Guiri completes reversal, hope of knockout still exists
In the 82nd minute, the Algerian team once again used a set kick to complete the reversal. Amine Gouiri reacted fastest in the box when the ball fell from another corner and guided it into the net from close range after a deflection to seal a crucial 2-1 lead.The goal sparked celebrations from Algerian fans as the North African side held firm in the closing stages to take the crucial three points.The win was historic, marking Algeria’s first World Cup win after conceding a goal in their opening game, having gone without a win in nine such games (seven losses and two draws).This result also qualified the Algerian team to compete for a place in the top 32. After losing 3-0 to Argentina in their first game, they currently have three points in Group J and are still expected to finish second if they beat Austria in their final group game.For Jordan, the defeat confirmed their exit from their first ever World Cup despite putting in all their efforts in both games.Argentina ranked first in the group with six points after winning two games. Austria overtook Algeria on goal difference and ranked second with three points. The atmosphere in the final round of Group J was tense.
