Algeria rally late to rescue World Cup hopes

Algeria avoided a damaging setback in Santa Clara, mounting a late comeback to defeat Jordan 2-1 and preserve their chances of advancing from Group J. Despite controlling possession and the physical battle, Vladimir Petkovic’s side were stunned in the 36th minute when Nizar Al-Rashdan capitalised on a defensive lapse to give Jordan a shock lead. The underdogs thrived in the ensuing chaos, unsettling an Algerian team that struggled to regain rhythm after the setback.

As frustration mounted, Algeria abandoned their intricate build-up play and turned to set-pieces to change the momentum. The shift paid off when Ahmed Benbouali headed in the equaliser from a corner in the 69th minute. Thirteen minutes later, another dead-ball delivery found Amine Gouiri, who steered home the winner to complete the turnaround. The victory gives Algeria their first points of the tournament and sets up a decisive clash with Austria, while Jordan are now eliminated.