Algeria came from behind to defeat Jordan 2-1 at Levi’s Stadium, securing their first World Cup win since 2014 and keeping their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive.
Jordan stunned the North African side in the 36th minute when Nizar Al Rashdan struck against the run of play to hand the tournament debutants a surprise lead despite Algeria dominating possession and creating the better chances.
Algeria, however, responded strongly after the interval. Vladimir Petkovic’s side increased the pressure and eventually found a way back into the contest through substitute Nadhir Benbouali, who rose highest to head home from a corner shortly after coming on at half time.
The momentum remained firmly with Algeria as Jordan struggled to cope with the relentless attacks. Their persistence paid off again when Amine Gouiri bundled home the winner from a goalmouth scramble following another corner, completing the turnaround and sealing all three points.
The result moves Algeria onto three points in Group J, level with Austria, while Jordan’s defeat ends their hopes of progressing to the knockout rounds. The outcome also confirms Argentina as group winners.
Although he did not get on the scoresheet, Ibrahim Maza played a pivotal role in Algeria’s revival. Quiet before the break, the young attacker drove his side forward in the second half with energetic runs through midfield, forcing goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila into several saves and helping transform Algeria’s attacking threat.
Jordan’s players were left devastated at full time, many collapsing to the turf after coming within touching distance of a famous result. Inspired by the goalkeeping heroics of Abulaila, they had frustrated Algeria for long periods and looked capable of pulling off one of the tournament’s biggest shocks.
Instead, Algeria’s depth and persistence proved decisive. After dominating much of the match but failing to convert their chances from open play, they ultimately turned the contest through two set pieces.
In a game where Algeria repeatedly carved open the Jordan defence, it was the more chaotic moments that made the difference. Benbouali’s headed equaliser and Gouiri’s close range winner from a corner ensured Algeria finally found a way through and secured a crucial victory.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
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