Mahrez Returns as Algeria and Jordan Draw 1-1 in World Cup Group J

Algeria and Jordan played out a 1-1 draw at the San Francisco Bay Area Stadium in Santa Clara, California, during their FIFA World Cup Group J match early on Tuesday. The result leaves Jordan still searching for their first win, while Algeria gained a vital point after their opening defeat.

The match saw Algeria reintroduce captain Riyad Mahrez to the starting lineup after he was benched for their opening 3-0 loss to Argentina. The former Manchester City winger took over the captaincy from Aissa Mandi, while coach Jamal Sellami made two changes for Jordan, bringing in defenders Hossam Abu Al-Dahab and Mahmoud Al-Mardi to bolster their chances.

Jordan took the lead early in the second half, but Algeria responded in the 69th minute when substitute Nadhir Benbouali outjumped the Jordan defense to head home a free kick from Mahrez, leveling the score. The goal energized Algeria, but Jordan remained dangerous on the counter through Ali Olwan, who had scored their first World Cup goal against Austria.

Both teams pressed for a winner in the final stages, with Algeria's Ibrahim Maza and Anis Hadj Moussa testing Jordan goalkeeper Yazeed Abu Laila, but neither side could break the deadlock. The draw leaves Jordan with one point and on the brink of elimination, while Algeria share the same record. Argentina, already qualified for the next round after beating Austria 2-0, top the group with maximum points.