Jordan's historic World Cup debut has come to an abrupt end after Algeria claimed a 2-1 comeback victory at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California, in front of 68,371 spectators, eliminating the Asian side with one group game still remaining.

Nadhir Benbouali and Amine Gouiri both scored from corners in the second half to overturn a first-half deficit, earning Algeria their first win of the 2026 tournament and keeping their Group J knockout hopes firmly alive.

Jordan's dream start turns sour

Jordan gave their supporters genuine belief in the 36th minute when Nizar Al Rashdan fired home with a first-time, outside-of-the-boot finish that sailed past Algerian goalkeeper Luca Zidane — son of the legendary Zinedine — to hand the debutants their first-ever lead at a World Cup.

It was a result of a 36th-minute counterattack, and the goal had the feel of a genuine upset in the making. Algeria struggled to create meaningful chances in the opening 45 minutes, and Jordan headed into the break with real confidence.

Algeria's corner-kick masterclass

Half-time changes shifted the contest decisively in Algeria's favour. In the 69th minute, Benbouali rose to meet Riyad Mahrez's corner with a firm header, levelling the score and registering Algeria's first goal of the entire 2026 tournament.

As Jordan tired, Algeria pressed for a winner — and it arrived in the 82nd minute. Gouiri poked home from close range following a knockdown at yet another corner. A VAR review for offside was conducted, but the goal stood, and Algeria had their turnaround complete.

What this means for Group J

Algeria's victory draws them level on points with Austria, and the two sides meet in Kansas on Sunday at 3am UK time in a decisive final Group J fixture. Both teams may need only a draw to advance to the round of 32.

The result also confirmed Argentina as Group J winners. The holders will face the Group H runners-up — currently Uruguay — in the round of 32 on July 3.

Jordan, eliminated after back-to-back defeats, will close out their maiden World Cup campaign against three-time world champions Argentina in Dallas on Sunday at 3am UK time. Despite the exit, their performance in this tournament marks a landmark moment for Asian football.