By Awambeng Fuh
Football writer kick442.com – Cameroon
Algeria produced a spirited second-half comeback to defeat Jordan 2-1 in their Group J encounter at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, securing a crucial three points to keep their hopes of progressing to the knockout stage alive.
Jordan made the brighter start and were rewarded in the 36th minute when Nizar Al-Rashdan found the back of the net to give the Middle Eastern side a deserved lead. Algeria struggled to impose themselves in the opening period and went into the halftime break trailing 1-0.
Needing a response after the interval, the Desert Foxes raised their intensity and gradually took control of the contest. Their persistence paid off in the 69th minute when Nadhir Benbouali restored parity with a composed finish, bringing Algeria back into the game.
With momentum firmly on their side, Algeria continued to press for a winner and completed the turnaround in the 82nd minute. Amine Gouiri emerged as the hero, scoring the decisive goal to spark celebrations among the Algerian supporters.
Jordan attempted to mount a late response, but Algeria held firm to secure a valuable victory that leaves Group J finely poised heading into the final round of matches.
The result handed Algeria their first win of the tournament after beginning their campaign with a defeat to Argentina. Jordan, meanwhile, suffered their second consecutive loss after previously falling to Austria.
Algeria will now turn their attention to a decisive final group match against Austria, while Jordan face group leaders Argentina as they seek to end their campaign on a positive note.
Jordan’s goal was scored by Nizar Al-Rashdan in the 36th minute, while Nadhir Benbouali equalized for Algeria in the 69th minute before Amine Gouiri struck the winner eight minutes from time to seal a memorable comeback victory for the Desert Foxes.
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