Algeria revived their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Jordan in San Francisco, eliminating the tournament debutants while keeping their own hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive.
After suffering defeat in their opening match, the North Africans responded with determination, overturning a first-half deficit to secure a crucial three points and set up a decisive final group encounter.
Jordan, seeking their first-ever World Cup point, stunned Algeria in the 36th minute when Nizar Al Rashdan punished a costly mistake by Ramiz Zerrouki. The midfielder capitalised on possession lost in midfield before producing a composed finish with the outside of his right foot to send Jordanian supporters into celebration.
The underdogs had shown their intentions from the opening minute when Al Rashdan flashed a header narrowly wide, while their disciplined defensive display frustrated an Algeria side that dominated possession throughout the contest.
Algeria created several opportunities before the breakthrough. Amine Gouiri dragged an effort wide, Fares Chaibi saw a low shot blocked, and veteran winger Riyad Mahrez, making his first World Cup start since 2014, was denied by goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila after racing onto a long pass.
The second half belonged to Algeria as they increased the pressure in search of an equaliser. Ibrahim Maza forced Abulaila into a fine save from distance before Nadhir Benbouali saw a powerful header kept out.
Jordan remained dangerous on the counterattack, with Noor Al Rawabdeh coming close with a curling effort that drifted just wide, but Algeria eventually found the breakthrough.
Mahrez delivered a dangerous corner in the 69th minute, and Benbouali rose highest to glance a downward header into the far corner, bringing the North Africans level.
With momentum firmly on their side, Algeria completed the comeback eight minutes from time. Another inswinging corner confused the Jordan penalty area, and the loose ball fell kindly to Gouiri, who reacted quickest to hook home the decisive winner.
The victory gives Algeria their first win of the tournament and keeps their qualification hopes alive heading into the final round of group matches.
For Jordan, the defeat ends a memorable but disappointing debut World Cup campaign. Despite their organisation and resilience, they leave the tournament without a point, while Algeria now look ahead with renewed belief that their journey in the United States can continue beyond the group stage.
