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Algeria defeats Jordan 2-1 to stay alive in World Cup 2026 Group J
On 23 June 2026 at Levi’s Stadium in San Francisco, Algeria overturned an early deficit to beat Jordan 2‑1 in Group J of the FIFA World Cup. Jordan took the lead in the 36th minute when Nizar Al‑Rashdan headed in a free‑kick. Algeria dominated possession and created pressure, but the breakthrough came from set‑pieces. A corner from Riyad Mahrez was headed home by substitute Nadhir Benbouali in the 69th minute to level the score. Six minutes later another Mahrez corner was converted by Amine Gouiri after a scramble in the box, giving Algeria the winner. Coach Vladimir Petkovic’s changes at halftime proved decisive, while Jordan coach Jamal Sellami said, “We know that the fear of the opener is behind us now.” The victory kept Algeria’s hopes of reaching the knockout round alive and set up a decisive clash with Austria for the group’s second place. Jordan’s defeat confirmed their elimination, and Argentina secured the group‑top spot.