Published：Jun 5, 13:45Last updated：Jun 17, 07:43

Austria Defeats Jordan in World Cup Opener

Jun. 5, 2026 13:45

The FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J includes Argentina, Austria, Algeria, and Jordan. Argentina, ranked 3rd in FIFA, is the reigning champion with key players like Lionel Messi. Austria, ranked 24th, did not participate in the 2022 World Cup. Algeria, ranked 28th, also missed the 2022 tournament. Jordan, ranked 63rd, is another participant. Betting odds favor Argentina to top the group.

Summarized

15News

8Media

Jun. 17, 2026 07:33

Ali Olwan, forward for Jordan and Qatar's Al-Sailiya, was named the best player in Jordan's World Cup debut against Austria. Olwan scored Jordan's first-ever World Cup goal in the 3-1 loss. The match was part of the expanded 48-team tournament hosted by the U.S., Canada, and Mexico.

Jun. 17, 2026 07:43

Austria struggled in their opening match against underdog Jordan but ultimately won 3-1. Highlights of the game are available in the video.

Austria marked their return to the FIFA World Cup after 28 years with a 3-1 victory over debutants Jordan in Group J. The match, played in San Francisco's Levi's Stadium, saw Jordan make history by scoring their first-ever World Cup goal through Ali Olwan, though Austria's experience ultimately prevailed with goals from Marko Arnautovic and an own goal. The result sets up Austria's next clash against reigning champions Argentina, led by Lionel Messi.Kommersant+2

⚽ Historic Debut for Jordan

Jordan became the first Arab team to score in their World Cup debut, with Ali Olwan's elegant finish in the 32nd minute leveling the match temporarily. The goal came from a swift counterattack, showcasing Jordan's potential despite their underdog status. This milestone moment was celebrated across Amman, where fans gathered in public squares to witness their nation's historic participation.Die Welt+2

🇦🇹 Austria's Comeback Story

Under German coach Ralf Rangnick, Austria demonstrated tactical discipline after Jordan's equalizer. Romano Schmid's midfield dominance and Arnautovic's clinical penalty sealed the victory. The win marks Austria's first World Cup appearance since 1998, with their last victory dating back to 1990 against the United States. The team now prepares for their toughest group challenge against Argentina on June 21.The Guardian+2

📊 Group J Standings Update

With this result, Austria temporarily tops Group J ahead of Argentina's opening match. The group remains highly competitive:

Team	Points	GD
Austria	3	+2
Argentina	0	0
Algeria	0	0
Jordan	0	-2
Jordan will face Algeria next, needing points to keep knockout stage hopes alive.China.org+2

🌟 Player Performances

Ali Olwan was named Jordan's Man of the Match despite the loss, while Austria's Marko Arnautovic proved decisive with his goal and assist. The match also highlighted: