Algeria produced a second-half comeback to beat World Cup debutants Jordan 2-1 in San Francisco, keeping their hopes of reaching the knockout stages alive while ending Jordan’s campaign.
Despite dominating possession for much of the contest, Algeria found themselves behind in the 36th minute after Nizar Al Rashdan capitalised on a costly mistake and curled a superb effort into the net to give Jordan a surprise lead.
Algeria had created several chances before the breakthrough, with Amine Gouiri firing wide, Fares Chaibi seeing an effort blocked, and veteran winger Riyad Mahrez denied by goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila after being played through on goal.
Jordan continued to defend resolutely after the break, but Algeria increased the pressure in search of an equaliser. Ibrahim Maza tested Abulaila from distance, while Nadhir Benbouali was also denied by the Jordanian goalkeeper.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 69th minute when Benbouali rose highest to meet a Riyad Mahrez corner, directing a header into the corner to level the score.
With momentum firmly on their side, Algeria completed the turnaround eight minutes from time. Another dangerous corner caused problems in the Jordan box, and Gouiri reacted quickest to hook the loose ball home and secure a crucial victory.
Jordan pushed for a response but could not find a way back, leaving them without a point from the tournament and officially eliminated from the competition.
The result leaves Algeria’s qualification hopes intact ahead of a decisive final group match against Austria, while Jordan will conclude their World Cup campaign against group winners Argentina.
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