Algeria’s Mahrez-inspired comeback eliminates Jordan in World Cup opener

A Tactical Shift After the Break

Jordan entered the match with hopes of extending their first-ever World Cup campaign, and for much of the first half, their defensive organization frustrated Algeria. According to The Analyst, Jordan created 0.54 expected goals (xG) in the opening 45 minutes, a significant improvement over their 0.46 xG from their entire opening match against Austria. This defensive structure was designed to absorb pressure and utilize quick transitions, a common strategy for underdogs facing more established footballing nations in the group stage.

The breakthrough came in the 36th minute when Nizar Al Rashdan finished with the outside of his right foot following a mistake by Algeria’s Ramiz Zerrouki, as reported by the BBC. While Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane managed to get a hand to the ball, he was unable to prevent it from finding the net. The Athletic noted that Zidane, the son of France legend Zinedine Zidane, may feel he could have done more to stop the strike, mirroring some of the difficulties he faced during Algeria’s opening loss to Argentina. The goal placed immense pressure on the Algerian squad, who arrived in California knowing that anything less than a victory would severely compromise their chances of advancing to the Round of 32.

Algeria’s Aerial Advantage

The second half saw a marked shift in momentum as Algeria dominated possession and territorial control. Algeria registered 17 shots compared to Jordan’s eight, and their pressure eventually yielded results through set-piece execution. In the 69th minute, Riyad Mahrez—making his first World Cup start since 2014—delivered a precise corner that Nadhir Benbouali headed into the corner of the net.

“Jordan had to take on Austria, and while they did manage a goal, they struggled throughout the entirety of that match keeping up with their level of play.” Jon Eimer, SportsLine expert, via CBS Sports

The comeback was finalized in the 82nd minute when Amine Gouiri scored from point-blank range following another inswinging corner. The goal stood after a VAR check for offside, effectively ending Jordan’s tournament hopes. Bleacher Report noted that while Algeria appeared methodical in their passing sequences early on, it was their ability to capitalize on set pieces that ultimately broke down Jordan’s resolute defensive block. Set pieces remain a critical component of modern tournament football, often serving as the primary equalizer when teams struggle to break down low-block defenses in open play.

Statistical Disparity in Group J

The final statistics underscore the gap in intensity between the two sides as the game progressed. Algeria controlled 69.3% of possession in the second half and accumulated 1.19 xG during that period. By the end of the match, Algeria’s total xG of 1.8 was more than double that of Jordan’s 0.7. This volume of chances highlights the physical toll taken on the Jordanian squad, who were forced to defend deep for large stretches of the match.

• Possession: Algeria 71% – 29% Jordan
• Shots on Target: Algeria 8 – 4 Jordan
• Tournament Milestone: Nadhir Benbouali became the first player to score at the World Cup while representing a Hungarian club since 1986.

For Jordan, the loss marks their elimination from the tournament, though they remain the first team since Cote d’Ivoire in 2006 to score in each of their first two FIFA World Cup matches. This feat is a notable achievement for a debutant nation, highlighting the competitive nature of their group. Jordan is now scheduled to face Argentina in their final group fixture. For Argentina, the match serves as an opportunity to solidify their standing as group winners, while Jordan will aim to exit the competition with a historic result.

Algeria, meanwhile, looks to build on this momentum to potentially secure a third-place wild card spot in the knockout rounds. The expanded 48-team tournament format places a premium on goal difference and points totals for the best third-place finishers, making every goal in the final round of group fixtures vital. Algeria’s ability to turn the game around suggests a depth of experience that will be necessary as they look toward the final group match and the potential for a high-stakes knockout bracket.

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