World Cup 2026: Aïssa Mandi praises Algeria’s composure after comeback win over Jordan

Algeria defender Aïssa Mandi has credited the national team’s calm approach and belief for their hard-fought 2-1 victory over Jordan, insisting the Greens never lost confidence despite trailing at half-time.

Speaking to beIN Sports after the match, Mandi reflected on a contest that tested Algeria both tactically and mentally. The victory revived the team’s World Cup campaign, but the experienced centre-back acknowledged that overcoming Jordan had never been expected to be straightforward.

Algeria found themselves behind at the break despite controlling large periods of the match, forcing Vladimir Petkovic’s side to respond in the second half.

Mandi explained that the players had anticipated a difficult encounter against a disciplined opponent capable of making life uncomfortable for any team.

” We knew it was going to be complicated. We didn’t think it would be an easy match. They are a good team that defends well ,” explained Mandi.

Although the scoreline favoured Jordan after the opening 45 minutes, the defender felt Algeria’s overall display deserved more.

” Losing 1-0 at half-time did not reflect the game we were playing at all ,” he said.

The defender pointed to Algeria’s commitment and intensity throughout the contest, highlighting the team’s ability to remain aggressive while continuing to impose its style of play.

For Mandi, the turning point was not tactical panic but patience.

As pressure increased during the second half, Algeria continued to trust the game plan rather than abandon it in search of a quick response. According to the defender, maintaining discipline and confidence proved crucial in eventually overturning the deficit.

” We had to stay calm, put our plans in place, stay focused on our game and not give in to panic. We knew we could come back, we were confident ,” he added.

Jordan continued to threaten on the counter-attack, creating moments of concern for the Algerian defence. However, Mandi felt his side generally managed those situations well while retaining control of possession and dictating the rhythm of the match.

” Certainly, they had some counter-attacking opportunities, but I think we handled them well. We had a lot of possession and control ,” he explained.

Algeria’s persistence was eventually rewarded as two second-half goals completed the comeback and secured three valuable points.

The result not only strengthened Algeria’s position in the group but also demonstrated the resilience within the squad. For Mandi, the victory was built on patience, confidence and collective effort, qualities that allowed the Greens to overcome a difficult challenge and keep their World Cup ambitions firmly alive.

Having responded positively after falling behind, Algeria now move forward with renewed belief, encouraged by a performance that showed both character and determination when it mattered most.