Algeria Come Back to Beat Jordan, Keep Qualification Hopes Alive
Algeria came from behind to defeat Jordan 2-1 at Levi's Stadium, with goals from Benbouali and Gouiri securing a vital three points.
In a crucial Group J clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Algeria came from behind to defeat Jordan 2-1 at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, keeping their knockout stage hopes alive. Jordan took an early lead through a first-half goal, but Algeria's second-half dominance turned the game around.
Jordan struck first in the 36th minute. Mousa Tamari assisted Noor Al Rashdan to give Jordan a 1-0 lead at halftime. Jordan's defense was well-organized in the first half, limiting Algeria's chances despite the latter's possession advantage.
Algeria intensified their attack after the break. In the 69th minute, Riyad Mahrez set up Nizar Benbouali to equalize. Then in the 82nd minute, Amine Gouiri scored the winner with an unassisted goal. Jordan could not find a response, and the match ended 1-2.
Statistics heavily favored Algeria: 72% possession to 28%, 17 total shots (8 on target) to 8 (4 on target), 10 corners to 1, and an expected goals of 1.81 to 0.65. Jordan's goalkeeper made 6 saves, while Algeria's made 3. Algeria completed 88% of their passes, compared to Jordan's 72%.
The top-rated player was Algeria defender Ramy Bensebaini, who earned a 7.9 rating in 90 minutes, completing 79 passes. The 30-year-old Borussia Dortmund defender has 81 caps, was born in Constantine, stands 187 cm tall, and is valued at €7.00m. His solid defensive performance was key to the comeback.
In the group standings, Argentina leads with 6 points from two wins. Austria and Algeria both have 3 points, but Austria has a goal difference of 0 while Algeria is at -2. Jordan is bottom with 0 points. This win keeps Algeria level on points with Austria, though behind on goal difference.
For Algeria, this victory is vital. They face Austria in the final group match on June 28 at 10:00 (Beijing time), needing a win to secure progression. Jordan, meanwhile, will take on Argentina in their last game, with slim chances of advancing.
Jordan, making their World Cup debut, have lost both matches but showed competitiveness against Algeria. Algeria demonstrated the resilience of a traditional North African powerhouse, turning the game around after a difficult first half. Group J's knockout berths will be decided on the final matchday.
For more match details, visit the match page. Learn about the teams on Jordan and Algeria pages. Check the Group J standings.