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World Cup 2026: Jordan’s journey from failure under Harry Redknapp to facing Lionel Messi
Yes, Jordan have benefited from the World Cup becoming a 48-team tournament, but qualification still has to be earned – just ask Italy.
For a country of just over 11 million people – 0.7% of the population of China, a continental rival who will not be at the World Cup – to reach their debut World Cup is no mean feat for Jordan.
“This achievement comes after years of hard work from players and the Jordan FA,” said Sellami, after the team’s place in the final was made certain with a 3-0 win over Oman.
“This historic qualification is for all the people who believed in us.”
Jordan have prepared by taking on World Cup regulars.
In the March international break, they earned 2-2 draws against Costa Rica and Nigeria – two more nations you would expect at a World Cup, but who missed out while the Jordanians progressed.
They have since lost to Switzerland and Colombia in warm-up friendlies before their opening group match against Austria in San Francisco (Wednesday 05:00 BST).
Jordan have been placed in Group J, a tricky pool also featuring Algeria and Argentina. If they progress, it will need an A-grade performance.
They have the benefit of the first two games both being in Santa Clara, California, allowing a base for Jordan’s fans while the team travel down from their temporary headquarters in Portland, Oregon.
Then on 27 June, in Arlington, Texas, comes the date with the Argentines.
Jordan’s standout player is captain and leading goal threat Musa Al-Taamari, who plays for Rennes in Ligue 1.
He told BBC World Service: “For us, it’s not about the money, it’s about the jersey. What we have. We have Jordan in our heart. Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Emirates – they have good money, they have really good teams but for us, like I say, we just play for us to be happy. You give everything.”
Striker Ali Olwan has 29 senior international goals, making him the joint second highest scorer in Jordanian history.
At the back, FC Seoul defender Yazan Al-Arab is the cornerstone, while Qatar SC midfielder Nizar Al-Rashdan is the main playmaker.
But after years of false hopes, blind alleys and broken promises, Jordan can finally call themselves a World Cup nation.
“What Jordan represents to me as a fan is beyond naming key players, specific coaches or a particular achievement,” said Arqawi. “It represents a source of pride.”
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