2026 FIFA World Cup — Group J, Matchday 2 | June 22 | Levi’s Stadium, Santa Clara

SANTA CLARA, Calif. — Algeria’s 2-1 comeback victory over Jordan was a masterclass in set-piece execution. Both goals came from Riyad Mahrez corners, both exploited Jordan’s zonal marking system, and both were the product of a tactical adjustment made at half-time.

The First Half: Jordan’s Low Block

Jordan set up in a 5-4-1, defending deep and compressing the space between their defensive line and midfield. Algeria dominated possession — 72 percent over the 90 minutes — but struggled to create clear chances from open play. Their expected goals (xG) in the first half was just 0.4.

Jordan’s goal in the 36th minute came from a high press — a rare moment of aggression that caught Algeria’s backline off guard. Al-Tamari intercepted a loose pass, drove into the box, and squared for Al-Rashdan to finish.

The Half-Time Adjustment

Algeria’s coach made two changes at the break: Benbouali replaced Boudaoui, and Bentaleb replaced Zerrouki. The tactical shift was clear — Algeria would target Jordan’s zonal marking with inswinging corners aimed at the near post.

The first goal came in the 69th minute. Mahrez delivered an inswinging corner from the right. Benbouali attacked the near post, beating his marker to the ball, and headed powerfully into the net. Jordan’s goalkeeper Abulaila had no chance.

The second goal, in the 82nd minute, was a variation on the same theme. Mahrez again delivered from the right, but this time the ball was aimed at the far post. Gouiri darted between two defenders, flicked the ball with his toe, and watched it nestle in the net. VAR confirmed the goal.

Group J Standings

Pos Team P W D L GF GA GD Pts
1 Argentina 2 2 0 0 5 0 +5 6
2 Austria 2 1 0 1 3 3 0 3
3 Algeria 2 1 0 1 2 4 -2 3
4 Jordan 2 0 0 2 2 5 -3 0

Match Details:

KONGSI 𝕏 f W ✉