Algeria kept their World Cup dream alive with a gritty 2-1 comeback win over Jordan in Santa Clara. Two second-half goals from corners turned the match on its head and ended Jordan’s hopes of reaching the round of 32.
For much of the night, Jordan looked in control of their historic first World Cup campaign. Nizar Al Rashdan stunned Algeria in the 36th minute, finishing calmly after a scrappy move inside the box. The goal gave the Asian debutants belief and sent their fans into loud celebration in California.
Algeria, by contrast, looked flat in the first half. Riyad Mahrez, recalled to the starting XI, came closest but failed to convert two key chances. The frustration was clear as Algeria went into the break behind despite dominating possession.
Jordan’s lead felt earned rather than lucky. Their defensive shape held firm, and they threatened on the break while Algeria struggled to break lines. Goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila also played his part with crucial saves to keep the lead intact.
The second half, however, told a different story. Algeria increased the tempo and forced Jordan deeper and deeper into their own half. Mahrez began to dictate play, delivering dangerous set pieces that would ultimately decide the match.
The equaliser came in the 69th minute. Substitute Nadhir Benbouali rose highest to meet a precise Mahrez corner and powered a header beyond Abulaila. That moment shifted momentum completely in Algeria’s favour.
Jordan tried to respond but were visibly drained by the pressure. Algeria kept pushing and found their breakthrough again from another set piece in the 82nd minute. Amine Gouiri reacted fastest to a loose ball in the box and prodded home after a corner scramble.
The goal survived a VAR check for offside, adding more tension to an already dramatic night. When it was finally confirmed, Jordan’s World Cup dream effectively ended on the spot.
Statistically, Algeria’s dominance after the break was clear. They controlled nearly 70 percent of possession and fired 13 shots compared to Jordan’s two. It was a relentless wave of pressure that eventually broke a stubborn defence.
Mahrez also made history, becoming the oldest Algerian to start a World Cup match. At 35 years old, he still produced the key creative moments, finishing with three chances created and seven crosses.
The win is also significant in a broader sense. Algeria had never before won a World Cup match after conceding first, making this comeback a landmark moment in their tournament history.
Jordan, meanwhile, exit after two straight defeats, but they leave with pride after scoring their first-ever World Cup goal and briefly dreaming of the knockout stage. Algeria move on level with Austria, with everything still to play for in Group J.
