FIFA World Cup 2026: Jordan vs Algeria Preview, Team News & Prediction

Jordan and Algeria will both be searching for their first victory of the FIFA World Cup 2026 when they meet in a crucial Group J encounter on Monday night.

After suffering defeats in their opening matches, both nations know that another loss could severely damage their hopes of reaching the knockout stages.

Match Preview

Jordan's first-ever FIFA World Cup match ended in a 3-1 defeat against Austria, but the scoreline did not fully reflect their performance. Al Nashama remained competitive throughout the contest and were still within touching distance until deep into stoppage time.

Head coach Jamal Sellami will take encouragement from the fighting spirit shown by his players, although concerns remain over their defensive record. Jordan have now gone six consecutive matches without a victory and have failed to keep a clean sheet during that period, conceding at least two goals in every game.

The West Asian side will be hoping that their attacking duo of Ali Olwan and Musa Al Taamari can inspire a historic first World Cup win.

Algeria also endured a disappointing start to their World Cup campaign, suffering a heavy 3-0 defeat against reigning champions Argentina. The Fennecs struggled to create chances and were punished by Lionel Scaloni's talented side.

Despite the setback, Algeria possess enough quality to bounce back. Vladimir Petkovic's team entered the tournament in strong form and will view this fixture as a must-win encounter if they are to keep their knockout-stage ambitions alive.

A victory would put Algeria in a strong position heading into their final group match against Austria.

Team News

Jordan may be forced into a defensive change after Abdallah Nasib was forced off through injury against Austria. His fitness will be assessed before kickoff.

Ali Olwan, who scored Jordan's first-ever World Cup goal, is expected to lead the attack once again. The forward has now scored 30 goals for his country and remains one of Jordan's biggest threats alongside Musa Al Taamari.

For Algeria, Mohamed Amoura could be handed a starting role after surprisingly beginning the Argentina defeat on the bench. The forward was Algeria's top scorer during World Cup qualifying with 10 goals.

Veteran captain Riyad Mahrez is also pushing for a return to the starting lineup after appearing as a substitute in the opening match. Vladimir Petkovic has no major injury concerns and is expected to make tactical adjustments rather than enforced changes.

Recent Form

Jordan

• World Cup: L

• Last six matches: L-D-D-L-L-L

Algeria

• World Cup: L

• Last six matches: L-W-D-W-W-L

Prediction

Jordan showed plenty of character against Austria but continue to struggle defensively. Algeria possess greater attacking quality and should create enough chances to secure an important victory.

Prediction: Jordan 1-3 Algeria