Austria beat Jordan 3-1 in World Cup group game

Jordan's first match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup ended in a 3-1 defeat to Austria, following a spirited performance in which the Nashama fought until the final minutes in the opening Group J fixture, which also features Argentina and Algeria.

Despite the result, Jordan delivered a respectable display in its first-ever appearance at the tournament, leaving a positive impression that reflected the development of Jordanian football and its ability to compete on the world's biggest stage.

The second half was highly competitive after the score stood at 1-1. The decisive moment came in the 77th minute when Jordan defender Yazan Alarab inadvertently scored an own goal, giving Austria a 2-1 lead.

Moments later, Austrian midfielder Marcel Sabitzer received a yellow card for a strong challenge. Austria head coach Ralf Rangnick then moved to protect his side's advantage in the 83rd minute, replacing forward Romano Schmid with Patrick Wimmer.

Jordan Pushes for an Equalizer

Jordan head coach Jamal Sellami made several attacking and injury-enforced substitutions in an attempt to rescue a result:

• 81st minute: Saeed Al-Rosan replaced Abdallah Nasib due to injury, while Mahmoud Al-Mardi came on for captain Ehsan Haddad.
• 88th minute: Mohammad Al-Daoud replaced winger Mousa Al-Taamari.
• 89th minute: Ali Azaizeh replaced Oudah Al-Fakhouri.

Stoppage-Time Drama

The referee added 10 minutes of second-half stoppage time. In the 91st minute (90+1), Jordan goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila produced an excellent save to deny Austria a third goal and keep Jordan's hopes alive.

The match was ultimately decided through VAR intervention. In the 100th minute (90+10), the referee reviewed an incident inside the Jordanian penalty area and awarded Austria a penalty.

Two minutes later, veteran striker Marko Arnautović converted the spot kick with a low right-footed effort into the left corner, sealing Austria's 3-1 victory.