Emerging
Published Jun 23, 2026Updated Jun 23 Major2
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Algeria Defeats Jordan 2-1 in World Cup Group J, Eliminates Asian Debutants
Algeria defeated Jordan 2-1 in a World Cup Group J clash on June 23, 2026, eliminating the Asian debutants from the tournament. Two corner kicks led to Algeria's second-half goals, overturning Jordan's first-half lead and securing the African side's first win of the 2026 tournament.
Quick Facts
- World Cup Group J match
- Jordan took early lead through Al Rashdan
- Algeria scored two corner-kick goals
- Algeria won 2-1
- Jordan eliminated from tournament
Algeria secured a 2-1 comeback victory over World Cup debutants Jordan in a Group J match played at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California on June 23, 2026, with an attendance of 68,371. Jordan took the lead in the 36th minute through Nizar Al Rashdan's first-time outside-of-the-boot finish, giving the Asian side hope of earning their first World Cup point. However, Algeria dominated the second half after making half-time substitutions, equalizing in the 69th minute when Nadhir Benbouali headed in from a Riyad Mahrez corner.
Algeria completed their turnaround in the 82nd minute as Amine Gouiri prodded home from another corner, with the goal surviving a VAR check for offside. Both of Algeria's goals came from set pieces, highlighting Jordan's weakness in defensive organization. The victory marked Algeria's first win of the 2026 tournament and moved them level on points with Austria heading into their final Group J match.
The loss eliminated Jordan from the tournament with one group match remaining, following their opening defeat to Austria. Despite the early exit, the debutants earned praise for their competitive performance against a more established opponent. Jordan will face three-time World Cup winners Argentina in their final group game, while Algeria plays Austria in a match where both sides may only need a draw to advance to the knockout stages. Argentina's place as Group J winners was confirmed by Algeria's victory.
Why This Matters
This victory is crucial for Algeria's World Cup campaign, securing their first tournament win and moving them level with Austria in Group J standings. The elimination of World Cup debutants Jordan demonstrates the experience advantage of established football nations and highlights the organizational weaknesses that new teams must overcome. For fans and analysts, this result clarifies Group J's qualification picture and sets up a decisive final round where Algeria and Austria may only need a draw to advance, while Argentina's dominance in the group is now confirmed.
Timeline & Sources
Jun 23, 2026
WireJordan eliminated from World Cup with one group match remaining
Jun 23, 2026
WireMatch begins; Jordan has early chance with Al Rashdan header from free-kick
Jun 23, 2026
WireMatch ends; Algeria wins 2-1
Jul 3, 2026
WireArgentina to face Group H runner-up (Uruguay) in Round of 32