Jordan's qualification for the 2026 FIFA World Cup marks a historic moment, ending a 40-year-long journey since their first qualifying campaign in 1986. The celebrations that erupted across the country underscore the significance of this achievement for Jordanian football. The road to the World Cup was not without its twists and turns, filled with both strategic victories and unexpected assistance from their rivals.
The decisive moment came on June 5th, 2025, when Jordan secured a 3-0 victory against Oman in the Asian qualifiers. Ali Olwan became the national hero, netting a hat-trick that etched his name in Jordanian football history. However, Jordan's place wasn't solely dependent on their own performance. Simultaneously, South Korea's 2-0 victory over Iraq confirmed Jordan's qualification even before their final round of fixtures. This ironic twist saw Iraq, who had ended Jordan's hopes of qualifying for the 1986 World Cup in Mexico, inadvertently paving the way for Jordan's debut in the 2026 tournament in the USA, Canada, and Mexico.
Throughout the qualifying campaign, Jordan showcased a resilient and tactical approach under the guidance of their Moroccan coach, Jamal Sellami. Despite a lone defeat to South Korea in Group B, Jordan proved to be a formidable force, accumulating 16 points and demonstrating their ambition to top the group. This strategic gameplay and composed performance earned Sellami widespread praise and cemented Jordan's position as a team to watch.
The victory against Oman sparked immediate celebrations across Jordan. Amman, the capital city, was filled with jubilant fans waving national flags, honking horns, and chanting in triumph. A spectacular drone light show illuminated the night sky with messages of support and pride, underscoring the nation's collective excitement. King Abdullah II, who was following the game from London, shared his pride and congratulated the team.
Jordan's qualification extends a period of remarkable success for the national team. They reached the Asian Cup final in 2023, where they narrowly lost to Qatar, after eliminating strong contenders like Iraq and South Korea. This journey to the final highlighted the team's growth and determination, solidifying their status as a rising force in Asian football. Key players like Mousa Al-Tamari, who plays for Rennes, and Yazan Al-Arab have been instrumental in this success, embodying the team's spirit and skill.
Looking ahead, Jordan aims to make a significant impact at the 2026 World Cup. Their debut at the expanded 48-team tournament represents not just a culmination of decades of effort but also an opportunity to showcase Jordanian football on a global stage. As they prepare for the challenges ahead, the team carries the hopes and dreams of a nation eager to witness their historic journey unfold.
