Jordan and Kyrgyzstan drew 0-0 in the World Cup - Qualification Asia. The fixture is part of the 2nd Round - 3 stage in the 2018 season. The full-time result capped a Jordan vs Kyrgyzstan meeting in World Cup - Qualification Asia with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Jordan and Kyrgyzstan. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
World Cup - Qualification AsiaRecorded meetings: 0 (available previous meetings, not necessarily all-time).
Jordan and Kyrgyzstan drew 0-0 in the World Cup - Qualification Asia. The fixture is part of the 2nd Round - 3 stage in the 2018 season. The full-time result capped a Jordan vs Kyrgyzstan meeting in World Cup - Qualification Asia with detailed post-match statistics available on Sportra. This match centre covers lineups, live events, player ratings, team statistics, xG, head-to-head history, and related news for Jordan and Kyrgyzstan. On Sportra you can view xG, lineups, match statistics, events, player ratings, predictions, head-to-head history, and related news for this fixture.
World Cup - Qualification Asia
Argentina is closing its participation in Group J against Jordan in the 2026 World Cup, with questions rising regarding the presence of star Lionel Messi in the game. Argentina is set to face Jordan for its final Group J match of the 2026 World Cup at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. With La Albiceleste having already punched their ticket to the knockout rounds, anticipation is building regarding how much fans will see of superstar Lionel Messi. Messi is expected to feature in the match, but likely as a second-half substitute. Head coach Lionel Scaloni made it clear during Friday’s press conference that Argentina’s captain will start the game on the bench, noting that while the squad is fully prepared for Jordan, he was reluctant to reveal the exact starting eleven just yet. Along with that announcement, Scaloni hinted that “Leo will come on later,” virtually guaranteeing the legendary playmaker will log some minutes. According to TyC Sports journalist and Argentina insider Gaston Edul, the Inter Miami star is eager to get on the pitch to avoid going more than an entire week without competitive match rhythm ahead of the Round of 32. Thus far, Messi has been in vintage form, netting five goals across the first two group matches to account for every single one of Argentina’s goals in the World Cup. Having just celebrated his 39th birthday, the iconic number 10 will also be looking to extend his lead at the top of the tournament’s golden boot race. #SelecciónMayor Última actividad terminada ✔️¡A cerrar el Grupo J del Mundial con todo! pic.twitter.com/V9NMwtxu1d— 🇦🇷 Selección Argentina ⭐⭐⭐ (@Argentina) June 26, 2026 Argentina and Jordan enter with their World Cup fates already sealed As Matchday 3 gets underway, the Round of 32 bracket is rapidly taking shape while the opening stage comes to a close. In the case of this matchup, the final standings for both nations have actually been mathematically decided before the opening whistle. Following consecutive shutouts against Algeria (3-0) and Austria (2-0), Argentina has already secured the top spot in Group J and a date with Cape Verde in the next round. Meanwhile, tournament debutants Jordan sit at the bottom of the group after narrow losses to Austria and Algeria, leaving them completely eliminated from knockout contention. Confirmed lineups for Jordan and Argentina Jordan’s confirmed lineup (3-4-3): Yazeed Abu Laila; Abdallah Nasib, Yazan Al Arab Husam Ali Mohammad; Ehsan Haddad, Nizar Al Rashdan, Noor Al Rawabdeh, Mohannad Abu Taha; Ali Al Azaizeh, Ali Olwan, Odeh Fakhoury.Head coach: Jamal Sellami. Argentina’s confirmed lineup (3-4-1-2): Emiliano Martínez; Nicolas Otamendi, Marcos Senesi, Nicolas Tagliafico; Giuliano Simeone, Leandro Paredes, Exequiel Palacios, Giovani Lo Celso; Nico Paz; Julian Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez.Head coach: Lionel Scaloni.
Jordan face a must-win situation against Algeria to keep their 2026 World Cup knockout dreams alive. Jordan find theirselves with their backs completely against the wall in Group J at the 2026 World Cup. The Asian side enters Matchday 2 needing a victory over Algeria to remain in contention for a spot in the Round of 32. Following a tough 3-1 defeat to Austria in their tournament opener, Jordan slipped to No. 68 in the live FIFA World Rankings. They are the clear underdogs in a powerhouse group that also features reigning champions Argentina (No. 1), Algeria (No. 29), and Austria (No. 22). This tournament marks Jordan’s first-ever historic appearance at a World Cup, but the debutants are already facing a do-or-die scenario. A defeat against Algeria would officially eliminate them from the group stage with one game left to play. The Chivalrous are hunting for three vital points against the North Africans to set up a meaningful final matchday clash. That final group game will come against world No. 1 Argentina, who have already secured their place in the Round of 32. Mahmoud Almardi #13 of Jordan applauds fans after the team’s 1-3 defeat vs Austria. (Getty Images) Jordan’s road to a historic first World Cup appearance Jordan’s presence at the 2026 World Cup represents an absolute milestone for the nation’s soccer history. They successfully qualified for soccer’s biggest stage for the first time ever after decades of heartbreak, cementing the peak of their current sporting cycle. Their tickets to North America were punched following a stellar campaign in the AFC Asian Qualifiers. Jordan finished second in Group B during the third round, trailing only South Korea while beating out a heavily favored Iraq squad. They officially secured their spot on June 5, 2025, with a dominant 3-0 victory over Oman. While the tournament’s expansion to 48 teams opened up more slots for the Asian confederation, Jordan’s success is no fluke. The squad has shown immense growth over the last two years, most notably during their fairytale run at the 2023 AFC Asian Cup, where they shocked the continent by reaching the final for the first time in history.
Austria celebrated their long-awaited return to the World Cup with a 3-1 win over determined debutants Jordan, with substitute Marko Arnautovic the difference in a gritty, end-to-end Group J match.On a brisk night in the San Francisco Bay Area, Austria went ahead with a 21st minute thunderbolt from Romano Schmid before Jordan fought back after the break through Ali Olwan’s exquisite strike in off the post. Continue reading...
Austria will play against Jordan in their opening FIFA World Cup group-stage contest. Here’s everything you need to know to watch the match live in the United States. Here are all of the details of where you can watch Austria vs Jordan on US television and via legal streaming: WHO Austria vs Jordan WHAT 2026 World Cup WHEN 12:00am ET / 9:00pm PT • Wednesday, June 17, 2026 WHERE Fubo, DirecTV Stream, Sling, Peacock Premium, FS1, Telemundo and Hulu + Live TV STREAM WATCH NOW Match Overview Austria makes a long-awaited return to the global stage for the first time since 1998, kicking off their campaign against tournament debutants Jordan. Under the guidance of Ralf Rangnick, the Austrians have transformed into a high-energy side and are widely considered potential dark horses. A convincing win is essential to set the tone in a challenging Group J that also features Argentina and Algeria. For Jordan, this match marks a historic moment as they make their first-ever appearance in the finals. Known for their disciplined and defensive low block, they face a monumental task against a European powerhouse. Securing any result would be a massive achievement, and their primary goal will be to frustrate Austria‘s potent attack and prove they belong at this level. Tactical Analysis & Match Context This opening fixture presents a classic clash of styles. Austria‘s modern identity, forged under Rangnick, is built on a relentless high press and fluid, possession-based football. During their qualifying run, they averaged an impressive 64.2% possession, a testament to their ability to dominate the ball and control the tempo of games. Their success has been driven by a core of players schooled in the high-intensity systems of Red Bull Salzburg and RB Leipzig. In stark contrast, Jordan embraces the role of the underdog. Manager Jamal Sellami has instilled a counter-attacking philosophy that relies on a compact, deep-lying defensive structure. They are comfortable ceding possession, as seen in their historic Asian Cup victory over South Korea where they had just 30% of the ball. Their strategy will be to absorb pressure and launch quick, vertical attacks, hoping to capitalize on any defensive lapses from the Austrians. The motivations for both sides are crystal clear. Austria needs a victory to build momentum and strengthen their case for advancing from the group, ideally as winners to avoid a potential powerhouse opponent in the knockout stage. For Jordan, the objective is to make a statement. Their game plan will revolve around defensive resilience, aiming to keep the scoreline tight for as long as possible and perhaps snatch a goal from a set-piece or a swift counter-attack. Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends This Group J encounter will be the first-ever meeting between Austria and Jordan in any competition. With no historical data to draw from, both teams will be entering uncharted territory, adding an extra layer of unpredictability to this opening match of the 2026 tournament. The fixture also marks new ground for both nations in the context of the global showpiece. In their seven previous appearances, Austria has never faced an opponent from the AFC confederation. Conversely, as one of four debutant nations, this will be Jordan‘s first-ever match against a European side in the competition’s history. Despite the lack of direct history, Austria‘s recent form provides some insight. They have entered their last 11 matches, including friendlies, as the odds-on favorite and have secured victory in nine of those contests. While Jordan‘s defense was solid during qualification, conceding an average of just 0.75 goals per game, they face a significant step up in quality against Rangnick‘s organized and aggressive side. Squad News & Projected Lineups Austria enters the tournament with significant injury concerns impacting key personnel, while Jordan arrives with a nearly full-strength squad ready for its historic debut. Austria‘s preparations have be
Full preview of Jordan for the 2026 World Cup, including squad breakdown, key players, and tactical analysis of their chances. Jordan arrives at the 2026 tournament as a debutant, stepping onto the global stage after a transformative run in Asian competition. Long considered a mid-tier side, the team recently secured its place among the FIFA World Cup 2026 teams by finishing second in its AFC qualifying group. Expectations are grounded, as Jordan faces a demanding group-stage draw against the elite international soccer teams 2026 will bring to North America. However, a disciplined defensive structure and quick attacking transitions offer a clear blueprint for competitiveness. This World Cup 2026 team preview explores how head coach Jamal Sellami has reshaped the squad, breaks down their tactical approach, and highlights the impact of star forward Mousa Al-Tamari. Team profile CoachJamal SellamiNicknameThe Chivalrous OnesFIFA ranking63rdConfederationAFCGroupGroup JBest World Cup resultDebutWorld Cup appearances1Last World Cup appearanceNone (Debut) How Jordan play A comprehensive Jordan tactical analysis begins with their disciplined defensive structure. The team typically utilizes a 3-4-2-1 or 3-4-3 Jordan formation, relying heavily on wing-backs to provide width and transition speed. Against superior opposition in North America, they will likely sit in a compact low block, prioritizing defensive stability over possession. When the opportunity arises, Jordan excels at springing forward in quick attacking transitions. The system is designed to funnel the ball out wide, bypassing midfield congestion and utilizing the flanks to stretch opponents. This counter-attacking approach relies heavily on the pace and decision-making of their forward line, particularly Al-Tamari, Yazan Al-Naimat, and Ali Olwan. While this defensive resilience makes them difficult to break down, the lack of elite depth could leave them vulnerable against technically gifted sides. Opponents will likely target the spaces behind their wing-backs during transitions. Ultimately, executing this counter-attacking blueprint with precision will dictate whether Jordan can remain competitive throughout the tournament. Jamal Sellami: The coach behind Jordan Sellami took over as the Jordan coach in 2024 and immediately guided the nation to its first-ever qualification for the global tournament. The Moroccan tactician replaced Hussein Ammouta just before the critical third round of AFC qualifying, seamlessly maintaining the team’s momentum. Before moving to the dugout, Sellami enjoyed a successful playing career, earning 38 international caps for Morocco and competing at the 1998 tournament in France. He then spent 13 years managing in his home country, developing a reputation for building organized, resilient teams. His leadership has instilled a clear identity within the squad, balancing defensive solidity with sharp offensive transitions. Sellami’s ability to organize his side against superior talent will be the defining factor in how Jordan handles the pressure of their debut campaign. Key player: Mousa Al-Tamari When discussing Jordan key players, Mousa Al-Tamari stands alone as the focal point of the national team. The Rennes forward is the only member of the squad currently competing in one of Europe’s top five leagues, making his top-flight experience invaluable for a roster stepping into unfamiliar territory. Operating primarily as an inverted winger, Al-Tamari provides the creative spark and finishing touch necessary for Sellami’s counter-attacking system to function. He has netted 24 goals in 91 appearances for his country, including seven crucial strikes during the recent qualification cycle. His ability to progress the ball through the attacking thirds makes him a constant threat in transition. If Al-Tamari were to miss time, Jordan would lose its primary attacking outlet, severely limiting their ability to relieve defensive pressure against elite opponents.
Jamal Sellami’s first-time qualifiers come up against Lionel Messi and Argentina in a challenging Group JThis article is part of the Guardian’s 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a cooperation between some of the best media organisations from the 48 countries who qualified. theguardian.com is running previews from three countries each day in the run-up to the tournament kicking off on 11 June. Continue reading...
Colombia and Jordan are clashing for one last friendly prior to the beginning of the 2026 World Cup, with questions rising over the presence of James Rodriguez on the game. Colombia faces Jordan on Sunday, June 7, in their final pre-tournament friendly ahead of the 2026 World Cup at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California. With ten days remaining before their Group K opener against Uzbekistan, the key question is whether James Rodriguez will be in the starting lineup for the Cafeteros. James Rodriguez is starting against Jordan. In the previous friendly against Costa Rica, head coach Nestor Lorenzo opted to rotate several starters, with James entering as a second-half substitute in what ended as a comfortable 3-1 victory for Colombia. With their base camp established in Guadalajara, the Colombian national team arrived in San Diego on Friday and held multiple training sessions ahead of Sunday’s match. Their World Cup debut against Uzbekistan is set for Wednesday, June 17, giving Lorenzo and his staff ten more days to fine-tune the squad’s preparation. Jordan, meanwhile, arrive in difficult form after a 4-1 defeat against Switzerland last Sunday. Drawn into Group J alongside Argentina, Algeria and Austria, the Asian side will be looking for an encouraging result against Colombia as they make their final preparations for their first World Cup appearance. James Rodriguez of Colombia dribbles the ball against Alvaro Zamora of Costa Rica. Jordan as a dry run for the Uzbekistan challenge With ten days to go before the tournament opener and part of the squad having been rotated against Costa Rica, Lorenzo is expected to go closer to his first-choice lineup against Jordan, a side he views as tactically comparable to their first World Cup opponent. “Jordan is a team that is tactically similar to Uzbekistan in that they play with a back five. They might suddenly play a 5-3-2 or a 5-4-1, just like Uzbekistan does too. So, well, Uzbekistan sometimes transitions—besides the back three—into a 3-4-3 when playing in a medium or high block, right?… Beyond the opponent, knowing how to face them, but finding the pathways that lead us to victory. That is the challenge of this match in particular,” Lorenzo said at his pre-match press conference. Confirmed lineups for Colombia and Jordan Colombia’s confirmed lineup (4-2-3-1): Camilo Vargas; Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sánchez, Jhon Lucumí, Johan Mojica; Jefferson Lerma, Gustavo Puerta; Jhon Arias, James Rodriguez, Luis Díaz; Luis Suarez.Head coach: Nestor Lorenzo. Jordan’s confirmed lineup (5-3-2): Yazeed Abu Laila; Ehsan Haddad, Abdallah Nassib, Yazan AlArab, Saleem Obaid, Mohannad Abu Tah; Nizar Al-Rashdan, Noor Al-Rawabdeh, Mousa Al-Tamari; Odeh Fakhoury, Ali Olwan.Head coach: Jamal Sellami.
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Argentina is closing its participation in Group J against Jordan in the 2026 World Cup, with questions rising regarding the presence of star Lionel Messi in the game. Argentina is set to face Jordan for its final Group J match of the 2026 World Cup at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas. With La Albiceleste having already punched their ticket to the knockout rounds, anticipation is building regarding how much fans will see of superstar Lionel Messi. Messi is expected to feature in the match, but likely as a second-half substitute. Head coach Lionel Scaloni made it clear during Friday’s press conference that Argentina’s captain will start the game on the bench, noting that while the squad is fully prepared for Jordan, he was reluctant to reveal the exact starting eleven just yet. Along with that announcement, Scaloni hinted that “Leo will come on later,” virtually guaranteeing the legendary playmaker will log some minutes. According to TyC Sports journalist and Argentina insider Gaston Edul, the Inter Miami star is eager to get on the pitch to avoid going more than an entire week without competitive match rhythm ahead of the Round of 32. Thus far, Messi has been in vintage form, netting five goals across the first two group matches to account for every single one of Argentina’s goals in the World Cup. Having just celebrated his 39th birthday, the iconic number 10 will also be looking to extend his lead at the top of the tournament’s golden boot race. #SelecciónMayor Última actividad terminada ✔️¡A cerrar el Grupo J del Mundial con todo! pic.twitter.com/V9NMwtxu1d— 🇦🇷 Selección Argentina ⭐⭐⭐ (@Argentina) June 26, 2026 Argentina and Jordan enter with their World Cup fates already sealed As Matchday 3 gets underway, the Round of 32 bracket is rapidly taking shape while the opening stage comes to a close. In the case of this matchup, the final standings for both nations have actually been mathematically decided before the opening whistle. Following consecutive shutouts against Algeria (3-0) and Austria (2-0), Argentina has already secured the top spot in Group J and a date with Cape Verde in the next round. Meanwhile, tournament debutants Jordan sit at the bottom of the group after narrow losses to Austria and Algeria, leaving them completely eliminated from knockout contention. Confirmed lineups for Jordan and Argentina Jordan’s confirmed lineup (3-4-3): Yazeed Abu Laila; Abdallah Nasib, Yazan Al Arab Husam Ali Mohammad; Ehsan Haddad, Nizar Al Rashdan, Noor Al Rawabdeh, Mohannad Abu Taha; Ali Al Azaizeh, Ali Olwan, Odeh Fakhoury.Head coach: Jamal Sellami. Argentina’s confirmed lineup (3-4-1-2): Emiliano Martínez; Nicolas Otamendi, Marcos Senesi, Nicolas Tagliafico; Giuliano Simeone, Leandro Paredes, Exequiel Palacios, Giovani Lo Celso; Nico Paz; Julian Alvarez, Lautaro Martinez.Head coach: Lionel Scaloni.
Jordan face a must-win situation against Algeria to keep their 2026 World Cup knockout dreams alive. Jordan find theirselves with their backs completely against the wall in Group J at the 2026 World Cup. The Asian side enters Matchday 2 needing a victory over Algeria to remain in contention for a spot in the Round of 32. Following a tough 3-1 defeat to Austria in their tournament opener, Jordan slipped to No. 68 in the live FIFA World Rankings. They are the clear underdogs in a powerhouse group that also features reigning champions Argentina (No. 1), Algeria (No. 29), and Austria (No. 22). This tournament marks Jordan’s first-ever historic appearance at a World Cup, but the debutants are already facing a do-or-die scenario. A defeat against Algeria would officially eliminate them from the group stage with one game left to play. The Chivalrous are hunting for three vital points against the North Africans to set up a meaningful final matchday clash. That final group game will come against world No. 1 Argentina, who have already secured their place in the Round of 32. Mahmoud Almardi #13 of Jordan applauds fans after the team’s 1-3 defeat vs Austria. (Getty Images) Jordan’s road to a historic first World Cup appearance Jordan’s presence at the 2026 World Cup represents an absolute milestone for the nation’s soccer history. They successfully qualified for soccer’s biggest stage for the first time ever after decades of heartbreak, cementing the peak of their current sporting cycle. Their tickets to North America were punched following a stellar campaign in the AFC Asian Qualifiers. Jordan finished second in Group B during the third round, trailing only South Korea while beating out a heavily favored Iraq squad. They officially secured their spot on June 5, 2025, with a dominant 3-0 victory over Oman. While the tournament’s expansion to 48 teams opened up more slots for the Asian confederation, Jordan’s success is no fluke. The squad has shown immense growth over the last two years, most notably during their fairytale run at the 2023 AFC Asian Cup, where they shocked the continent by reaching the final for the first time in history.
Austria celebrated their long-awaited return to the World Cup with a 3-1 win over determined debutants Jordan, with substitute Marko Arnautovic the difference in a gritty, end-to-end Group J match.On a brisk night in the San Francisco Bay Area, Austria went ahead with a 21st minute thunderbolt from Romano Schmid before Jordan fought back after the break through Ali Olwan’s exquisite strike in off the post. Continue reading...
Austria will play against Jordan in their opening FIFA World Cup group-stage contest. Here’s everything you need to know to watch the match live in the United States. Here are all of the details of where you can watch Austria vs Jordan on US television and via legal streaming: WHO Austria vs Jordan WHAT 2026 World Cup WHEN 12:00am ET / 9:00pm PT • Wednesday, June 17, 2026 WHERE Fubo, DirecTV Stream, Sling, Peacock Premium, FS1, Telemundo and Hulu + Live TV STREAM WATCH NOW Match Overview Austria makes a long-awaited return to the global stage for the first time since 1998, kicking off their campaign against tournament debutants Jordan. Under the guidance of Ralf Rangnick, the Austrians have transformed into a high-energy side and are widely considered potential dark horses. A convincing win is essential to set the tone in a challenging Group J that also features Argentina and Algeria. For Jordan, this match marks a historic moment as they make their first-ever appearance in the finals. Known for their disciplined and defensive low block, they face a monumental task against a European powerhouse. Securing any result would be a massive achievement, and their primary goal will be to frustrate Austria‘s potent attack and prove they belong at this level. Tactical Analysis & Match Context This opening fixture presents a classic clash of styles. Austria‘s modern identity, forged under Rangnick, is built on a relentless high press and fluid, possession-based football. During their qualifying run, they averaged an impressive 64.2% possession, a testament to their ability to dominate the ball and control the tempo of games. Their success has been driven by a core of players schooled in the high-intensity systems of Red Bull Salzburg and RB Leipzig. In stark contrast, Jordan embraces the role of the underdog. Manager Jamal Sellami has instilled a counter-attacking philosophy that relies on a compact, deep-lying defensive structure. They are comfortable ceding possession, as seen in their historic Asian Cup victory over South Korea where they had just 30% of the ball. Their strategy will be to absorb pressure and launch quick, vertical attacks, hoping to capitalize on any defensive lapses from the Austrians. The motivations for both sides are crystal clear. Austria needs a victory to build momentum and strengthen their case for advancing from the group, ideally as winners to avoid a potential powerhouse opponent in the knockout stage. For Jordan, the objective is to make a statement. Their game plan will revolve around defensive resilience, aiming to keep the scoreline tight for as long as possible and perhaps snatch a goal from a set-piece or a swift counter-attack. Head-to-Head Record & Historic Trends This Group J encounter will be the first-ever meeting between Austria and Jordan in any competition. With no historical data to draw from, both teams will be entering uncharted territory, adding an extra layer of unpredictability to this opening match of the 2026 tournament. The fixture also marks new ground for both nations in the context of the global showpiece. In their seven previous appearances, Austria has never faced an opponent from the AFC confederation. Conversely, as one of four debutant nations, this will be Jordan‘s first-ever match against a European side in the competition’s history. Despite the lack of direct history, Austria‘s recent form provides some insight. They have entered their last 11 matches, including friendlies, as the odds-on favorite and have secured victory in nine of those contests. While Jordan‘s defense was solid during qualification, conceding an average of just 0.75 goals per game, they face a significant step up in quality against Rangnick‘s organized and aggressive side. Squad News & Projected Lineups Austria enters the tournament with significant injury concerns impacting key personnel, while Jordan arrives with a nearly full-strength squad ready for its historic debut. Austria‘s preparations have be
Full preview of Jordan for the 2026 World Cup, including squad breakdown, key players, and tactical analysis of their chances. Jordan arrives at the 2026 tournament as a debutant, stepping onto the global stage after a transformative run in Asian competition. Long considered a mid-tier side, the team recently secured its place among the FIFA World Cup 2026 teams by finishing second in its AFC qualifying group. Expectations are grounded, as Jordan faces a demanding group-stage draw against the elite international soccer teams 2026 will bring to North America. However, a disciplined defensive structure and quick attacking transitions offer a clear blueprint for competitiveness. This World Cup 2026 team preview explores how head coach Jamal Sellami has reshaped the squad, breaks down their tactical approach, and highlights the impact of star forward Mousa Al-Tamari. Team profile CoachJamal SellamiNicknameThe Chivalrous OnesFIFA ranking63rdConfederationAFCGroupGroup JBest World Cup resultDebutWorld Cup appearances1Last World Cup appearanceNone (Debut) How Jordan play A comprehensive Jordan tactical analysis begins with their disciplined defensive structure. The team typically utilizes a 3-4-2-1 or 3-4-3 Jordan formation, relying heavily on wing-backs to provide width and transition speed. Against superior opposition in North America, they will likely sit in a compact low block, prioritizing defensive stability over possession. When the opportunity arises, Jordan excels at springing forward in quick attacking transitions. The system is designed to funnel the ball out wide, bypassing midfield congestion and utilizing the flanks to stretch opponents. This counter-attacking approach relies heavily on the pace and decision-making of their forward line, particularly Al-Tamari, Yazan Al-Naimat, and Ali Olwan. While this defensive resilience makes them difficult to break down, the lack of elite depth could leave them vulnerable against technically gifted sides. Opponents will likely target the spaces behind their wing-backs during transitions. Ultimately, executing this counter-attacking blueprint with precision will dictate whether Jordan can remain competitive throughout the tournament. Jamal Sellami: The coach behind Jordan Sellami took over as the Jordan coach in 2024 and immediately guided the nation to its first-ever qualification for the global tournament. The Moroccan tactician replaced Hussein Ammouta just before the critical third round of AFC qualifying, seamlessly maintaining the team’s momentum. Before moving to the dugout, Sellami enjoyed a successful playing career, earning 38 international caps for Morocco and competing at the 1998 tournament in France. He then spent 13 years managing in his home country, developing a reputation for building organized, resilient teams. His leadership has instilled a clear identity within the squad, balancing defensive solidity with sharp offensive transitions. Sellami’s ability to organize his side against superior talent will be the defining factor in how Jordan handles the pressure of their debut campaign. Key player: Mousa Al-Tamari When discussing Jordan key players, Mousa Al-Tamari stands alone as the focal point of the national team. The Rennes forward is the only member of the squad currently competing in one of Europe’s top five leagues, making his top-flight experience invaluable for a roster stepping into unfamiliar territory. Operating primarily as an inverted winger, Al-Tamari provides the creative spark and finishing touch necessary for Sellami’s counter-attacking system to function. He has netted 24 goals in 91 appearances for his country, including seven crucial strikes during the recent qualification cycle. His ability to progress the ball through the attacking thirds makes him a constant threat in transition. If Al-Tamari were to miss time, Jordan would lose its primary attacking outlet, severely limiting their ability to relieve defensive pressure against elite opponents.
Jamal Sellami’s first-time qualifiers come up against Lionel Messi and Argentina in a challenging Group JThis article is part of the Guardian’s 2026 World Cup Experts’ Network, a cooperation between some of the best media organisations from the 48 countries who qualified. theguardian.com is running previews from three countries each day in the run-up to the tournament kicking off on 11 June. Continue reading...
Colombia and Jordan are clashing for one last friendly prior to the beginning of the 2026 World Cup, with questions rising over the presence of James Rodriguez on the game. Colombia faces Jordan on Sunday, June 7, in their final pre-tournament friendly ahead of the 2026 World Cup at Snapdragon Stadium in San Diego, California. With ten days remaining before their Group K opener against Uzbekistan, the key question is whether James Rodriguez will be in the starting lineup for the Cafeteros. James Rodriguez is starting against Jordan. In the previous friendly against Costa Rica, head coach Nestor Lorenzo opted to rotate several starters, with James entering as a second-half substitute in what ended as a comfortable 3-1 victory for Colombia. With their base camp established in Guadalajara, the Colombian national team arrived in San Diego on Friday and held multiple training sessions ahead of Sunday’s match. Their World Cup debut against Uzbekistan is set for Wednesday, June 17, giving Lorenzo and his staff ten more days to fine-tune the squad’s preparation. Jordan, meanwhile, arrive in difficult form after a 4-1 defeat against Switzerland last Sunday. Drawn into Group J alongside Argentina, Algeria and Austria, the Asian side will be looking for an encouraging result against Colombia as they make their final preparations for their first World Cup appearance. James Rodriguez of Colombia dribbles the ball against Alvaro Zamora of Costa Rica. Jordan as a dry run for the Uzbekistan challenge With ten days to go before the tournament opener and part of the squad having been rotated against Costa Rica, Lorenzo is expected to go closer to his first-choice lineup against Jordan, a side he views as tactically comparable to their first World Cup opponent. “Jordan is a team that is tactically similar to Uzbekistan in that they play with a back five. They might suddenly play a 5-3-2 or a 5-4-1, just like Uzbekistan does too. So, well, Uzbekistan sometimes transitions—besides the back three—into a 3-4-3 when playing in a medium or high block, right?… Beyond the opponent, knowing how to face them, but finding the pathways that lead us to victory. That is the challenge of this match in particular,” Lorenzo said at his pre-match press conference. Confirmed lineups for Colombia and Jordan Colombia’s confirmed lineup (4-2-3-1): Camilo Vargas; Daniel Muñoz, Davinson Sánchez, Jhon Lucumí, Johan Mojica; Jefferson Lerma, Gustavo Puerta; Jhon Arias, James Rodriguez, Luis Díaz; Luis Suarez.Head coach: Nestor Lorenzo. Jordan’s confirmed lineup (5-3-2): Yazeed Abu Laila; Ehsan Haddad, Abdallah Nassib, Yazan AlArab, Saleem Obaid, Mohannad Abu Tah; Nizar Al-Rashdan, Noor Al-Rawabdeh, Mousa Al-Tamari; Odeh Fakhoury, Ali Olwan.Head coach: Jamal Sellami.
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