In a thrilling milestone for football across the Arab world, Jordan has secured a spot in the upcoming FIFA World Cup in 2026. Following a remarkable 3–0 victory over Oman, the Jordanian national team confirmed its status as the first Arab nation to punch its ticket in the expanded 48-team tournament scheduled to take place across the United States, Canada, and Mexico.
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For a nation of fewer than 11 million, Jordan’s footballing journey to this global stage has been long and circuitous. Past efforts included near-misses and heartbreaks—particularly a heartbreaking loss to Uruguay in the 2013 intercontinental playoff that kept them out of the 2014 finals . The past two qualifying cycles saw high-profile British managers like Harry Redknapp and Ray Wilkins take the helm, yet their campaigns fell short of World Cup qualification .
It wasn’t until the appointment of Moroccan coach Hussein Ammouta in June 2023 that Jordan’s rise truly began. He guided Jordan to their first-ever AFC Asian Cup final, including a stunning semifinal victory over South Korea. After Ammouta’s departure in 2024, Jamal Sellami, another Moroccan, maintained momentum. Employing a defence-first tactic with a swift counter-attack style, Sellami steered Jordan through a disciplined campaign in the third qualifying round to finish second in Group B .
Jordan’s early eliminations in the 2018 qualification round set the stage for renewal. But under strong leadership, the team transformed. In ten third-round matches, Jordans amassed 16 points, clinching a top-two spot behind South Korea. The decisive victory over Oman, featuring Ali Olwan’s second hat trick in three weeks—with his goals steeped in precision and timing—cemented their place in the finals . South Korea’s simultaneous win then mathematically eliminated other runners-up, officially confirming Jordan’s entry .
Jordan’s attack was spearheaded by Ali Olwan, whose clinical finishing—three goals versus Oman—returned him to the spotlight following an earlier hat trick in World Cup qualifying. He was supported by Rennes winger Musa al‑Tamari, who netted seven goals during the campaign, while Yazan al‑Naimat added five more . On the defensive end, the team conceded just eight goals in the group stage—the second-best defensive record in the group—revealing a cohesion and defensive strength rarely seen in previous campaigns .
As the final whistle blew on Jordan’s historic qualification, jubilation filled streets in Amman. Jordanian expatriates in the UAE also joined the celebrations, filled with pride and hope khaleejtimes.com +2 magzter.com +2 khaleejtimes.com +2 . King Abdullah II celebrated with the team from London, wearing the national jersey in a powerful symbol of unity khaleejtimes.com .
Jordan's success is part of a broader football moment in Asia. The expansion to 48 teams has opened doors across the continent. Uzbekistan also clinched its first-ever World Cup berth after a draw with the UAE, while South Korea secured its 11th consecutive qualification. These achievements highlight the widening competitiveness within the region .
With the passport secured, Jordan turns its attention to preparing for the World Cup stage. Coach Sellami addressed the nation, dedicating the accomplishment to the fans and athletes who believed in them . The team is now considering training camps, scheduling friendlies, and logistics as they gear up for a historic debut at the global tournament.
Jordan’s breakthrough marks a turning point. It represents a sign of progress and hope for Arab and West Asian nations striving for global presence in football. With more spots now available, the ambitions of Gulf countries may soon materialize on the world stage.
Jordan’s ascent to the World Cup signals a new era in regional football—not only for Jordan but for Gulf and Arab nations. As the countdown begins to the 2026 tournament, all eyes remain on how “the first among” performs on this grand stage.
