Jordan vs Costa Rica: Friendly Match Update

By Vikram Nair / 27.03.2026

“For us, we are not going just for participation,” said Noor Al-Rawabdeh, emphasizing Jordan’s determination as they prepare for their first World Cup appearance.

The friendly match against Costa Rica took place on March 27, 2026, at the Mardan Sports Complex in Antalya, Turkiye. This match was part of a four-team regional tournament, which was relocated from Jordan due to the ongoing war in the Middle East.

Jordan secured their spot in the World Cup after finishing second in their Asian qualifying group behind South Korea. They will be competing in Group J alongside Austria, Algeria, and Argentina.

During the friendly, Jordan’s Ibrahim Sabra scored the team’s second goal, contributing to their performance as they look to make a significant impact on the world stage.

Mohammad Abu Alnadi expressed the excitement within the team, stating, “It’s truly amazing. All of us are excited. It’s one of the highest levels any player can play.” This sentiment reflects the aspirations of the Jordanian squad as they aim to go beyond mere participation.

Head coach Jamal Sellami noted the unpredictability of big competitions, referencing Morocco’s surprising run to the semifinals in the last World Cup. His comments highlight the potential for surprises in the tournament.

Jordan’s preparation is not just about playing matches; it is about making history. Abu Alnadi reiterated, “We want to go as far as possible — like any other team — and make history again.” This ambition is shared across the squad as they gear up for their debut.

With both teams having secured two wins each in the tournament, Jordan currently stands one point ahead of Costa Rica in the standings. The friendly match serves as a crucial step in their preparations for the World Cup, which will take place from June 11 to July 19, 2026.

As Jordan continues to train and compete, they remain focused on their goals, hoping to carry the momentum from their friendly matches into the World Cup.