Argentines anxious after Jordan’s performance in Arab Cup Final ahead of 2026 World Cup

• Argentina fans expressed concern on social media following Jordan's resilient 3-2 extra-time loss to Morocco in the FIFA Arab Cup final, with many labeling their 2026 World Cup pairing in Group J as a "potential trap."
• Jordan’s standout performance, led by Ali Olwan’s two goals, cemented the team's status as a legitimate threat, causing some defending champion supporters to fear a repeat of Argentina’s 2022 shock opening-match defeat to Saudi Arabia.

As the countdown to the 2026 FIFA World Cup intensifies, Argentina fans are experiencing a mix of awe and apprehension following Jordan's gritty performance in the FIFA Arab Cup final.

The Asian underdogs, drawn into Group J alongside defending champions Argentina, Algeria, and Austria, nearly pulled off a stunning upset against powerhouse Morocco, losing 3-2 in extra time after a thrilling comeback that had social media ablaze.

The Arab Cup final, held at Lusail Stadium in Qatar – the same venue where Argentina lifted the 2022 World Cup trophy – saw Jordan fight back from a 2-0 deficit to level the score at 2-2, thanks to a brace from striker Ali Olwan.

Morocco ultimately prevailed with goals from Achraf Tannane and a double from Youssef En-Nesyri's replacement, Abderrazak Hamdallah

Jordan's run to the final included impressive wins over Egypt (3-0) in the group stage and Saudi Arabia (1-0) in the semifinals, marking their best-ever showing in the tournament

The match's drama peaked when Jordan thought they had taken a 3-2 lead in extra time, only for the goal to be disallowed – a decision that left fans and analysts debating its validity. "It wasn't a handball, and yes, Jordan ended up losing 2-3; they collapsed after that disallowed goal," tweeted one spectator in Spanish.

No fue mano, y sí, lo terminó perdiendo Jordania 2-3, se vinieron abajo luego de ese gol anulado. https://t.co/sQ1in2S6oG

— Pichu (@y_soloconunbeso) December 19, 2025

Despite the loss, Jordan's resilience has elevated their status, with commentators noting their "alma (soul)" and team unity.

"Jordan is showing they’re the real deal. They aren't afraid of anyone," posted football analyst Nahuel Lanzón in Spanish, praising their fearless approach.

Igual, mas allá de todo, a mi me gustan los equipos que juegan con el alma y funcionan como un bloque unido, y Jordania está mostrando ser eso. Juegan sin miedo ante nadie.

Fueron a la Copa Árabe sin su mejor jugador, se le lesionó el segundo mejor en el torneo (encima una…

— Nahuel Lanzón (@nahuelzn) December 20, 2025

For Argentina supporters, the performance has sparked a wave of nervous reactions on X (formerly Twitter), blending humor, praise, and concern about the upcoming World Cup matchup.

Many referenced the group draw from earlier this month, where Jordan's inclusion initially seemed like a favorable draw but now feels like a potential trap.

"We're out in the group stage," quipped one Argentina fan, echoing fears of an early exit.

nos van a dejar afuera estos tipos pic.twitter.com/fBim6HQcUD

— nachito (@iggnaciocarp) December 18, 2025

Another post said: “We really ended up in the group of death. We’re going home in the first round”.

Realmente nos toco el grupo de la muerte.
Nos volvemos en primera ronda.

— JD (@JotaDe90) December 18, 2025

Some fans drew parallels: "My old man always said: beware of the bottom-tier teams. They only exist to ruin our day," a nod to past upsets like Argentina's shock loss to Saudi Arabia in 2022

Mi abuelo siempre decia: cuidado con las selecciones de mierda. Solo existen para cagarnos la vida

— Hater n°1 de ubeda (@twiter_zzz) December 18, 2025

FIFA World Cup 2026

Praise for Jordan's stars, particularly Olwan, was common: "Ali Olwan said, 'Alright, I’ve got this.' The tournament's top scorer, and always doing exactly what the team needed."

Igual, mas allá de todo, a mi me gustan los equipos que juegan con el alma y funcionan como un bloque unido, y Jordania está mostrando ser eso. Juegan sin miedo ante nadie.

Fueron a la Copa Árabe sin su mejor jugador, se le lesionó el segundo mejor en el torneo (encima una…

— Nahuel Lanzón (@nahuelzn) December 20, 2025

Argentina's Group J campaign kicks off on June 17, 2026, with their match against Jordan scheduled for June 28 at AT&T stadium in Arlington, Texas.

While Lionel Messi's side remains heavy favorites, Jordan's Arab Cup heroics serve as a reminder that no game is a formality.