sports
Jordan World Cup 2026 team guide
Jamal Sellami’s first-time qualifiers come up against Lionel Messi and Argentina in a challenging Group J
TL;DR
- Jordan makes its World Cup debut after nine previous unsuccessful attempts.
- The team topped their second-round Asian qualifying group and finished second in the third round to secure qualification.
- Coach Jamal Sellami uses a 3-4-3 formation, focusing on quick transitions and the pace of Mousa Al-Tamari.
- Jordan's Group J opponents are Argentina, Austria, and Algeria.
- Key players include Mousa Al-Tamari, Ali Olwan, and defender Yazan Al-Arab.
- Striker Yazan Al-Naimat is out due to an ACL injury.
- Coach Jamal Sellami previously represented Morocco as a player in the 1998 World Cup.
- Mousa Al-Tamari, nicknamed the 'Jordanian Messi', has a successful career in European football.
- Odeh Fakhouri is a potential replacement for the injured Yazan Al-Naimat.
- Nizar Al-Rashdan is a key midfielder known for decisive goals.
- Jordanian fans are known for their passion and support, with many expected to attend despite concerns about ticket prices and transportation.
- Concerns exist regarding visa delays for fans due to the US-Iran conflict.