World Cup dream: Jordan faces Oman in crucial qualifier match

The Jordanian national football team, known as the Nashama, stands on the brink of history as they prepare to face Oman in a crucial 2026 FIFA World Cup qualification match tomorrow, June 5, at the Sultan Qaboos Sports Complex in Muscat.

A victory could secure Jordan’s first-ever qualification for the FIFA World Cup, a milestone that would mark a monumental achievement for the country’s sports history.

The match, part of the AFC third round qualifiers in Group B, kicks off at 8:00 PM local time and carries immense weight for both teams.

Jordan, currently second in their group with 13 points and a +6 goal difference, is three points behind leaders South Korea.

A win against Oman, combined with a loss for Iraq against South Korea in a simultaneous fixture, could clinch Jordan’s direct qualification to the 2026 World Cup, hosted by the United States, Mexico, and Canada.

Under the guidance of coach Jamal Sellami, Jordan has shown remarkable form in the qualifiers. Their dominant 4-0 victory over Oman in October 2024 at Amman International Stadium showcased their attacking prowess, with Yazan Al-Naimat and Ali Alwan each scoring twice.

Oman, sitting fourth in Group B with 10 points, is not out of the race.

Managed by Rashid Jaber, the Omani side is coming off a 1-0 friendly win over Lebanon and a 4-1 thrashing of a Niger ‘A’ team, signaling their intent to challenge Jordan on home soil.

Despite their recent loss to Jordan, Oman’s solid home record, seven wins and one draw in their last ten home matches, makes them a formidable opponent.

A victory for Oman, coupled with dropped points by Jordan and Iraq, could keep their hopes alive for a top-two finish and their first-ever World Cup appearance.

The head-to-head record slightly favors Jordan, who has won five of their 12 encounters with Oman, including the last two matches, while Oman has secured three victories and four draws.

Since their first World Cup qualifying campaign in 1986, the Nashama have come close to qualification, notably reaching the intercontinental playoff against Uruguay in 2013.

Their recent performances, including a 2-0 upset over South Korea in the 2024 AFC Asian Cup semifinals and second place finish in the tournament after a loss to Qatar, have raised expectations. With FIFA expanding the 2026 World Cup to 48 teams, granting Asia eight direct qualification spots, Jordan’s chances have never been better.

Fans across Jordan are buzzing with anticipation, with many gathering in Amman to watch the match at public screenings, amplified with the fact it's on Thursday, a public holiday marking Arafat Day, which is followed directly by Eid al-Adha.