Algeria kept their World Cup qualification hopes alive after coming from behind to defeat Jordan 2-1, a result that confirmed the tournament debutants’ elimination from the competition.
The North Africans recovered from a first-half setback in San Francisco, scoring twice after the break to claim a crucial victory and remain in contention for a place in the knockout rounds.
Jordan, who were seeking their first-ever World Cup point, produced a spirited performance but were ultimately unable to withstand Algeria’s sustained second-half pressure.
Jordan strike first against run of play
Despite Algeria dominating possession for much of the opening period, it was Jordan who opened the scoring in the 36th minute.
Midfielder Nizar Al Rashdan capitalised on a misplaced pass from Ramiz Zerrouki before finishing calmly with the outside of his right foot to give his side a surprise lead.
Algeria had created several opportunities before the breakthrough. Amine Gouiri fired wide, Fares Chaibi saw an effort blocked, while veteran winger Riyad Mahrez was denied by goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila after racing onto a long pass.
Jordan also threatened early, with Al Rashdan heading narrowly wide inside the opening minute.
Algeria turn game around after interval
The Algerians emerged from the break with greater urgency and repeatedly tested Abulaila.
Ibrahim Maza forced the goalkeeper into a save from distance before Nadhir Benbouali was also denied with a header.
Their persistence finally paid off in the 69th minute when Benbouali rose highest to meet Mahrez’s corner, directing a header in off the post to level the scores.
Jordan nearly regained the lead through Noor Al Rawabdeh, whose curling effort drifted just wide, but Algeria continued to press for a winner.
That decisive moment arrived eight minutes from time. Following another dangerous corner delivery, the ball fell kindly for Gouiri, who reacted quickest to hook home from close range.
Qualification hopes remain alive
The victory lifts Algeria’s hopes of reaching the round of 32 ahead of their final group match against Austria.
For Jordan, however, the defeat confirms their exit from the tournament after a courageous first World Cup campaign.
They will conclude their Group J journey against defending champions Argentina, while Algeria head into their final fixture knowing another positive result could secure a place in the knockout stages.
