Akhbar Alyoom - Leen Abu Nimeh

Jordan’s national football team made history by qualifying for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, but their journey ended with three defeats and mounting criticism.
Despite their struggles on field, sponsors and advertisers rallied behind the team, celebrating the record-breaking achievement and global exposure tied to their debut.
Jordan scored three goals while conceding eight, finishing at the bottom of Group J. Analysts highlighted several factors behind the team’s losses. Starting with the absence of in-form striker Yazan Al-Naimat, who tore his ACL after scoring eight goals in the Arab Cup. Coach Sellami described him as “a player who cannot be replaced.”. Also, the squad’s limited top-level talent, with captain Musa Al-Tamari the only Jordanian competing in Europe’s top five leagues — a sign of the team’s lack of experience compared to their group rivals. Ending with the team lacked attacking depth compared to their resilient Asian Cup run.
Off the pitch, Jordan’s campaign brought significant benefits. Regional and national brands launched creative campaigns supporting the team. Arab Bank, the main sponsor, showcased national pride, while Zain Jordan-with Yazeed Abu Laila as their media face- provided technical infrastructure for fan zones and organized large public viewing events, including at Amman’s Roman Theater and the Jerash ruins. The Ministry of Tourism and Antiquities and the Jordan Tourism Board also supported fan activations abroad, hosting “Jordan House 2026” hospitality events for diaspora and Arab fans in host cities such as San Jose.
Public opinion on the team’s performance was divided. Some citizens argued that the criticism was excessive and disrespectful, noting that constructive feedback is acceptable but harsh language against players is not. Others felt the criticism was deserved, pointing to stronger performances in the Asian Cup and Arab Cup. Many fans attributed the losses to inexperience, given that this was Jordan’s first World Cup appearance. Captain Musa Al-Tamari responded: “We proved we belong on the world stage, even if the results did not go our way.”
Despite disappointment over the results, Jordanians expressed overwhelming pride and joy at reaching this level in football. The historic qualification was seen as a milestone for the nation, inspiring hope for future growth in both football development and commercial partnerships.