Algeria turns the tide and Argentina tops Group J

 Algeria staged an impressive comeback in the second half, denying Jordan a chance at their first World Cup victory and confirming Lionel Messi's Argentina to top Group J. Jordan, although losing 1-3 to Austria in their debut match of the tournament, managed to surprise with their determination and effort, leading against Algeria despite being dominated for most of the first half. Nizar Al-Rashdan scored after Musa Al-Taamari's shot was misplaced and accidentally hit him, even though Algeria goalkeeper Luca Zidane, son of French legend Zinedine, had a chance to intervene. At this point, Jordan had a theoretical chance to win the group, having beaten Argentina in the last round of matches, but goals from Nadhir Benbouali and Amine Gouiri gave Algeria a 2-1 victory, their first at the World Cup in 12 years, and lifted Messi and company from top spot. As Charlotte Harpur and Laurie Whitwell from The Athletic point out, Algeria created scoring opportunities throughout the match. They could have led by two or three goals before Jordan scored against the flow of play. Long balls were played several times to their captain, Riyad Mahrez, who perfectly timed the moments to run in, but the two-time Premier League winner could not finish the action. However, it is worth praising Jordan's defense and goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila. As a team, they remained organized and disciplined. Despite Algeria's beautiful passing sequences, they lacked effectiveness. Paradoxically, it was the set pieces that made the difference as both of Algeria's goals came from corner kicks. After Algeria equalized, only one team looked more likely to score again, while Jordan fell deeper and deeper and was unable to maintain the intensity of play. --- ## Related Articles 1. [Lionel Messi Sets World Cup Records, Salah Celebrates Egypt's Victory](https://pitchpulsemedia.com/en/news/lionel-messi-sets-world-cup-records-salah-celebrates-egypts-victory) 2. [England Faces Key Test Against Ghana in World Cup 2026](https://pitchpulsemedia.com/en/news/england-faces-key-test-against-ghana-in-world-cup-2026)