Algeria rallies past Jordan 2-1 to stay alive in World Cup Group J

Match recap

Algeria dominated possession (72% to 28%) but fell behind in the 36th minute when Nizar Al-Rashdan drilled in a loose ball after a defensive turnover. Goalkeeper Luca Zidane got a touch but couldn't keep it out. The Desert Foxes had created chances earlier, with captain Riyad Mahrez wasting two one-on-one opportunities.

Second-half rally

Coach Vladimir Petkovic introduced Nabil Bentaleb and Nadhir Benbouali at half-time, lifting the intensity. The equaliser came in the 69th minute: Mahrez delivered a corner and Benbouali rose above the Jordan defence to glance a header into the corner. Thirteen minutes later, another corner caused chaos, and Amine Gouiri pounced on a deflection to prod home the winner from close range, sparking celebrations among the Algerian fans behind the goal at Levi's Stadium.

We had the mental strength to come back, and I think we're continuing to improve. This victory, earned with character and determination, will do us the world of good.

Group J picture

The result lifted Algeria level with Austria on three points, while Argentina secured the group's top spot after beating Austria 2-0 earlier on the same day. Jordan, in their first World Cup appearance, were eliminated with zero points but will face Argentina in a farewell match. Algeria and Austria meet on Saturday, June 27 in Kansas City; a win would send the North Africans through to the round of 32 for the first time since 2014. They could also progress as one of the best eight third-placed teams depending on other results.

Lawrence adopts the Foxes

Algeria's base camp has been Lawrence, Kansas, where the university town of 96,000 residents has embraced the team with street decorations, halal menu expansions, and sellout watch parties. The team's reception went viral online, and coach Petkovic credited the support for giving his players a lift. Local entrepreneur Morgan Fellers said her T-shirt business has repeatedly sold out its print runs, totalling around 400 to 450 shirts. "It has been honestly just magical, kind of bringing the team and Lawrence together and making them feel at home," she said.

It was a very difficult match. They led 1-0, but we dominated throughout the game. At half-time we talked about giving even more but also staying patient. Then we scored two beautiful goals and won. I think these three points will help us in the next match and motivate us enormously.