Algeria began their 2026 FIFA World Cup campaign with a dominant 4-0 victory over Jordan in Group J at the Al Janoub Stadium on Tuesday. The win puts Algeria top of the group, while Jordan must regroup ahead of their next match.
First-Half Dominance
Algeria took control early, with Riyad Mahrez opening the scoring in the 12th minute. The captain curled a free-kick over the wall and into the top corner, leaving Jordan goalkeeper Yazid Abu Layla with no chance. Baghdad Bounedjah doubled the lead in the 34th minute, tapping in from close range after a cross from Youcef Belaïli.
Jordan struggled to create chances, managing only one shot on target in the first half through Mousa Al-Tamari, which was easily saved by Rais M'Bolhi.
Second-Half Onslaught
Algeria continued to press after the break. Ismaël Bennacer made it 3-0 in the 56th minute with a powerful strike from outside the box after a corner was cleared. Substitute Islam Slimani added a fourth in the 78th minute, heading in from a Mahrez corner.
Jordan's best opportunity came in the 70th minute when Al-Tamari hit the post from a tight angle. Despite late pressure, they could not find a consolation goal.
Group J Implications
The victory puts Algeria in a strong position to advance from Group J, which also includes Germany and Costa Rica. Jordan now face a must-win match against Costa Rica to keep their knockout stage hopes alive.
Algeria coach Djamel Belmadi praised his team's performance: "We executed our game plan perfectly. The players showed great intensity and quality. This is just the start, but we are confident."
Jordan coach Adnan Hamad acknowledged the gap: "Algeria are a top team. We made mistakes and they punished us. We must learn quickly for the next game."
Statistics and Key Moments
Algeria dominated possession with 62% and had 15 shots to Jordan's 5. Mahrez was named man of the match for his goal and assist. The attendance was 42,345.
This was Algeria's first World Cup win since 2014. Jordan, making their tournament debut, will aim to bounce back against Costa Rica on June 27.
