Algeria reignited their FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign with a spirited second-half comeback to defeat Jordan 2-1 at Levi’s Stadium, keeping their hopes of reaching the knockout stage alive while ending Jordan’s historic debut tournament.

The Desert Foxes recovered from a first-half setback to secure their first points of the competition after suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat to Argentina in their opening Group J match. The result leaves Algeria firmly in contention for a place in the Round of 32, while Jordan’s second consecutive defeat confirms their elimination from the tournament.

Jordan stunned their North African opponents in the 36th minute against the run of play. A defensive lapse by Algeria allowed star winger Mousa Al-Tamari to find Nizar Al-Rashdan, who produced a superb finish with the outside of his right foot to beat goalkeeper Luca Zidane and give the debutants a surprise lead.

Despite dominating possession for much of the first half, Algeria struggled to convert their control into clear scoring opportunities. Led by captain Riyad Mahrez, the Desert Foxes moved the ball well but failed to seriously trouble Jordan goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila before the break.

Seeking a response, Algeria manager Vladimir Petković made key tactical changes at halftime, introducing midfielder Nabil Bentaleb and striker Nadhir Benbouali.

The substitutions transformed the contest as Algeria increased the tempo and pinned Jordan deep inside their own half. The pressure finally paid off in the 69th minute when Benbouali powered home a header from a pinpoint corner delivered by Mahrez to level the score.

With Jordan struggling to withstand the relentless attacks, Algeria completed the turnaround eight minutes from time. Following a goalmouth scramble from a set-piece situation, Amine Gouiri reacted quickest to poke the ball into the net and give his side a crucial lead.

The late strike sparked jubilant celebrations among Algerian players and supporters as the Desert Foxes held on for a vital victory.

The result leaves defending champions Argentina atop Group J with six points after two matches. Austria and Algeria both have three points, although Austria currently occupy second place on goal difference. Jordan remain bottom of the standings without a point and are now mathematically eliminated.

Algeria’s qualification hopes will be decided in a crucial final group match against Austria in Kansas City on June 28. Jordan, meanwhile, will conclude their maiden World Cup campaign against Argentina in Arlington, Texas, looking to end their tournament on a positive note.

For Algeria, the comeback victory represents more than three points—it is a lifeline in their quest to reach the knockout rounds and a reminder of the resilience that has long defined the Desert Foxes on the world stage.