Jordan vs Iraq: World Cup Qualifying Clash Set to Determine Final Group Standings
As the World Cup Qualifying phase heats up in Asia, anticipation builds for Tuesday’s clash between Jordan and Iraq at the Amman International Stadium. With Jordan celebrating their first-ever qualification for the World Cup, this match signifies a crucial moment on their journey, while Iraq, on the other hand, seeks redemption and a chance to salvage their qualifying campaign.
Jordan’s Historic Milestone
Fresh off securing a spot in the coveted 2026 World Cup, Jordan has reached an impressive milestone in their football history. Under the guidance of coach Jamal Sellami, Jordan’s performance in the qualifying rounds has been nothing short of spectacular. The team boasts an unbeaten record in eight of their nine Group B matches, notching up four victories and one draw, all while scoring 16 goals and achieving three clean sheets.
The highlight of their recent success came when they triumphed over Oman 3-0, with Ali Olwan emerging as the star by netting a hat-trick. This victory not only confirmed Jordan’s qualification but also showcased their attacking prowess and solid defense, making them a formidable opponent for Iraq.
Jordan currently ranks 62nd in the FIFA World Rankings, having made their mark in the Asian football scene after a commendable run in the AFC Asian Cup last year, where they reached the final. Their only blemish in the qualifiers was a home loss to South Korea, which marked their only defeat in this campaign.
Iraq’s Struggles and Resilience
Conversely, Iraq enters this match following a disappointing campaign. Recent results have seen them win just one point out of the last nine available and exit the 2024 Gulf Cup in the group stages. A pivotal moment in their qualifiers came during a 2-0 defeat against South Korea, a match that not only dashed their hopes of qualifying but also highlighted defensive frailties, with 11 goals conceded in their last five matches.
The Lions of Mesopotamia, currently ranked 78th in FIFA’s standings, are in dire need of a turnaround. However, they will be without key player Ali Al-Hamadi, who is suspended after receiving a red card against South Korea. This absence could hinder their attacking capabilities and strength in numbers.
Your Guide to the Matchup
As the two teams prepare to meet in Amman, here’s what to expect:
- Jordan’s Strengths: A solid defense and a potent attack, highlighted by Olwan’s recent performance.
- Iraq’s Challenges: Defensive vulnerabilities and a lack of recent form could hinder their performance.
- Head-to-Head: Historically, Iraq has had the upper hand in their encounters, remaining unbeaten in 40 of their last 48 meetings since 1964.
- Key Players: Look out for Jordan’s Olwan and Iraq’s Mohanad Ali, who will both be crucial to their teams’ success.
Predictions and Possible Lineups
This match promises to be intense as both teams vie for crucial points. Jordan aims to finish their qualifiers on a positive note, while Iraq seeks to redeem themselves and prevent further losses.
The predicted lineups are as follows:
Jordan’s Possible Starting XI:
- Yazeed Abulaila (GK)
- Mo Abualnadi
- Yazan Alarab (C)
- Abdallah Nasib
- Ibrahim Sadeh
- Amer Jamous
- Yazan Al-Naimat
- Mousa Al-Taamari
- Ali Olwan
Iraq’s Possible Starting XI:
- Hassan (GK)
- Hussain Ali
- Rebin Sulaka
- Talib Tahseen
- Sami Doski
- Bayesh
- Rashid
- Youssef Amyn
- Ali Jasim
- Mohanad Ali
In terms of predictions, analysts forecast a closely contested match. Based on current forms and statistics, the most likely outcome is a draw. In figures:
Jordan win probability: 36.2%
Iraq win probability: 35.08%
Draw probability: 28.7%
The predicted scoreline is a 1-1 draw, reflecting both teams’ strengths and weaknesses. With Jordan looking to finish strong and Iraq desperate for points, this match is poised to deliver an exciting conclusion to the group stage.
Stay tuned for an exhilarating evening of football, as both Jordan and Iraq battle for pride and points in an atmosphere charged with anticipation and emotion.
