Algeria's Possible Lineup to Face Jordan at the FIFA World Cup 2026

The Desert Foxes are looking to bounce back after their opening defeat to Argentina and keep their knockout-stage hopes alive against Jordan in Group J.

Algeria aims to get its World Cup campaign back on track

The Algeria national team enters a pivotal Matchday 2 clash at the 2026 FIFA World Cup when it takes on Jordan in a match that could play a major role in determining the outcome of Group J.

The Desert Foxes opened the tournament against defending champions Argentina, facing one of the toughest possible tests in the competition. While the final score favored the South Americans, Algeria showed flashes of quality and resilience against one of the favorites to lift the trophy.

Now, Vladimir Petković's side knows that earning three points against Jordan is essential if it hopes to remain in contention for a place in the knockout rounds.

FIFA World Cup

How And Where To Watch: Jordan vs Algeria

Mahrez remains the leader of a talented squad

Algeria arrived at the World Cup carrying significant expectations thanks to a roster filled with experience and attacking quality.

The leadership of Riyad Mahrez, combined with the creativity of Ibrahim Maza, the versatility of Farès Chaïbi, and the finishing ability of Amine Gouiri, gives Algeria multiple ways to threaten opposing defenses.

There is also growing anticipation surrounding Mohamed Amoura, who could return to the starting lineup after beginning the opener on the bench despite being one of Algeria's most productive players during qualifying.

Soccer Football - CAF Africa Cup of Nations - Morocco 2025 - Round of 16 - Algeria v Democratic Republic of Congo - Moulay El Hassan Stadium, Rabat, Morocco - January 6, 2026 Algeria's Riyad Mahrez before the match REUTERS/Siphiwe Sibeko

Algeria's possible lineup

Petković is expected to make a few adjustments following the defeat to Argentina, particularly in the attacking areas.

Possible Algeria lineup:

Goalkeeper: Luca Zidane

Defenders: Rafik Belghali, Aïssa Mandi, Ramy Bensebaïni, Rayan Aït-Nouri

Midfielders: Hicham Boudaoui, Ramiz Zerrouki, Ibrahim Maza

Forwards: Riyad Mahrez, Mohamed Amoura, Farès Chaïbi

A match that could decide second place in the group

With Argentina widely viewed as the favorite to finish atop Group J, the battle for second place remains completely open.

That reality makes the matchup between Algeria and Jordan one of the most important games of the group stage for both nations.

On paper, Algeria enters as the favorite, but the Desert Foxes understand that another setback would significantly complicate their path to the Round of 32. A victory, however, would put them back in the qualification race heading into their final group-stage match against Austria.