Algeria kept theirs World Cup qualification hopes alive after coming to defeat Jordan 2-1, a result that confirmed the elimination of the tournament debutants from the competition.
The North Africans bounced back from a first-half setback in San Francisco to score twice after the break to secure a crucial victory and stay in contention for a place in the knockout rounds.
Jordan, looking for his first point in World Cup history, produced a spirited performance but ultimately could not withstand sustained pressure from Algeria in the second half.
Jordan strikes first against the run of play
Despite Algeria dominating possession for most of the first period, it was Jordan who opened the scoring in the 36th minute.
Midfielder Nizar Al Rashdan capitalized on Ramiz Zerrouki’s errant pass before calmly finishing with the outside of his right foot to give his side a surprise lead.
Algeria created several chances before breaking through. Amine Gouiri fired wide, Fares Chaibi saw an effort blocked, while veteran winger Riyad Mahrez was denied by goalkeeper Yazeed Abulail after racing onto a long pass.
Jordan also threatened early on, with Al Rashdan heading just wide in the first minute.
Algeria turn the game around after the break
The Algerians came out of the break with greater urgency and repeatedly tested Abulailah.
Ibrahim Maza forced the goalkeeper into a long-range save before Nadhir Benbouali’s header was also denied.
Their persistence finally paid off in the 69th minute when Benbouali rose highest to meet Mahrez’s corner, sending a header wide of the post to level the scores.
Jordan almost regained the lead through Noor Al Rawabdeh, whose curling effort was just over the top, but Algeria continued to press for the winner.
That decisive moment arrived eight minutes before time. After another dangerous corner kick, the ball hit Gouiri, who reacted the fastest and knocked in from close range.
Hopes for qualification remain alive
This victory boosts Algeria’s hopes of a place in the round of 16 ahead of the last group game against Austria.
For Jordan, however, the defeat confirms their exit from the tournament after a brave first World Cup campaign.
They will conclude their Group J journey against defending champions Argentina, while Algeria will head into their final game knowing another positive result could secure a place in the knockout stages.
