Algeria Turn the Tables in Pulsating Jordan Comeback
Benbouali and Gouiri strike late as Algeria overturn a deficit to beat debutants Jordan 2-1 in Group J.
Benbouali Breaks the Deadlock
Algeria refused to go quietly in Santa Clara. Trailing 1-0 at the break against World Cup debutants Jordan, Djamel Belmadi’s side summoned a second-half spirit that rocked Group J on its axis. Two late goals — one a thumping header, the other bundled home after VAR intervention — sent Algeria surging back into contention for the knockout rounds with one group game remaining.
Nadhir Benbouali changed the game the moment he came off the bench at half-time. The substitute arrived with purpose, and on 68 minutes he powered a header from Riyad Mahrez’s corner to level proceedings. It was the 26th substitute goal of the tournament, and its timing proved decisive. Algeria’s momentum became unstoppable as Jordan’s defensive discipline, so firm in the first half, began to crack under sustained pressure.
Gouiri Seals the Three Points at 83 Minutes
Amine Gouiri pounced on 83 minutes, bundling home a finish that required VAR confirmation before sparking jubilant Algerian celebrations. The victory was fully deserved across the second half and offered a statement of intent. Jordan, playing their first World Cup, showed tremendous resilience but ultimately could not hold on as Algeria’s quality in the final third told.
Algeria now head into their final group game needing a positive result to secure a place in the Round of 32. The fight shown against Jordan has ignited belief across the squad — and given their passionate support reason to dream.
