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Algeria staged a dramatic second-half comeback to beat Jordan 2-1 in Group J on Monday. Goals from substitutes Nadhir Benbouali and Amine Gouiri overturned an early Jordan strike, eliminating their opponents and pushing Algeria to the brink of the 2026 World Cup knockout stage.
Defending champions Argentina aim to become the first team since Brazil in 1962 to win back-to-back World Cups, with Lionel Messi set to lead the squad despite a minor injury. The team boasts a mix of seasoned veterans and emerging talent, but faces tougher opposition and Messi’s declining physical peak. Al Jazeera predicts a semifinal finish.
Jordan will make a historic first appearance at the World Cup in 2026, having qualified after reaching the Asian Cup final and winning the Arab Cup. Under Moroccan coach Jamal Sellami, the team relies on captain Mousa Tamari, known as the 'Messi of Jordan,' for inspiration in Group J alongside Argentina, Austria and Algeria.
