Algeria Stage Second-Half Comeback to Beat Jordan 2-1 and Keep World Cup Hopes Alive

Algeria Stage Second-Half Comeback to Beat Jordan 2-1 and Keep World Cup Hopes Alive

Algeria kept their World Cup knockout dreams alive with a dramatic 2-1 comeback victory over debutants Jordan at Levi's Stadium in Santa Clara, California. The Fennec Foxes trailed at half-time but produced a resilient second-half display, scoring twice from corner kicks to claim their first win at the World Cup since 2014 . The result lifts Algeria to three points in Group J, level with Austria, while Jordan's hopes of advancing have been eliminated after two consecutive defeats.

Jordan stunned the Algerian supporters in the 36th minute when Nizar Al Rashdan swept home with the outside of his boot after Mousa Al Tamari's miscued shot sliced across the penalty area into his path . It was Jordan's first-ever goal at a World Cup, a historic moment for the tournament debutants . The goal came completely against the run of play, as Algeria had been the more proactive side throughout the first half but were unable to carve out clear opportunities . The North Africans were poor in the final third during the first period, with their best chance coming from a Riyad Mahrez free-kick that was comfortably saved .

The second half was a different story as Algeria poured forward in search of an equalizer. Their persistence paid off in the 69th minute when substitute Nadhir Benbouali rose highest at a corner to head home from Mahrez's delivery, sparking wild celebrations among the Algerian fans. The momentum had clearly swung, and eight minutes later, another corner proved decisive when Amine Gouiri tucked in from close range after the ball fell to him in the box, completing the turnaround and securing all three points. The victory was Algeria's first in the World Cup since 2014 and their first-ever win after conceding the first goal .

The result leaves Group J wide open heading into the final round of fixtures. Argentina, who have six points, have already secured their place in the Round of 32, while Algeria and Austria are tied on three points and will face each other in a winner-takes-all clash on Saturday . Jordan, despite their spirited display, are out of contention after two losses and will play for pride in their final group match. Algeria's ability to fight back after a disappointing opening defeat to Argentina will give them confidence heading into their crucial showdown with Austria.