Jordan JOR

Jordan arrive at the 2026 World Cup as first-time finalists, a landmark achievement for a nation ranked 63rd in the world by FIFA. Managed by Jamal Sellami, the Nashama sealed their place in the tournament with a match to spare in AFC qualifying — a statement of intent from a side that has grown steadily into a genuine regional force.

On the biggest stage they have ever graced, Jordan will likely set up in a deep-lying back five, prioritising defensive solidity and looking to frustrate opponents before striking on the counter. It is a pragmatic approach that suits the squad's profile, and when the transitions click, they can be genuinely dangerous — particularly through the electric Musa Al-Taamari, whose pace and directness on the wing gives any defence reason to worry.

The major concern heading into the tournament is the absence of key striker Yazan Al-Naimat through injury, a blow that leaves a significant hole in Sellami's attacking options. Combined with a relative lack of big-game experience at this level, Jordan will need their supporting cast to step up considerably if they are to make any kind of impression on the group stage.

That supporting cast is not without quality. Yazeed Abulaila, Husam Abu Dahab, Yazan Al-Arab, Mohammad Abu Zrayq, Odeh Al-Fakhouri, Rajaei Ayed, Mohammad Abualnadi, Salim Obaid, Ibrahim Sabra, Ehsan Haddad, and Anas Badawi all carry the hopes of a nation making history, and several will be eager to seize their moment on football's grandest stage.