Nigeria: Lowdown on Super Eagles opponents Jordan

Nigeria face Jordan in Antalya, Turkey, on Tuesday in the second and final game of their international friendly schedule, Afrik-Foot reports.

The fixture was originally set to be played in Amman, but security concerns following the escalation of tensions in the Middle East forced organisers to relocate both matches to Turkey.

The Super Eagles come into this contest on the back of a hard-earned 2-1 win over Iran in their opening match. Another victory here would guarantee Nigeria top spot in the four-nation invitational tournament.

Jordan, meanwhile, were held to a 2-2 draw by Costa Rica in their first outing. That result leaves them needing a win against Nigeria if they are to lift the trophy.

Beyond the immediate stakes, this match carries greater significance for Jordan as they continue preparations for their first-ever appearance at the FIFA World Cup later this year.

Key players to watch

Musa Al-Tamari (Forward/Winger)

Often dubbed the “Jordanian Messi”, Al-Tamari is the side’s most dangerous attacking outlet. The Stade Rennais winger is known for his pace, close control, and ability to cut in from the right onto his stronger left foot. He finished the World Cup qualifying campaign with seven goals and remains Jordan’s primary creative spark.

Yazan Al-Arab (Defender)

A commanding presence at the heart of defence, Al-Arab provides leadership and physical strength. His organisational skills were central to Jordan’s impressive runs to the Asian Cup and Arab Cup finals.

Nizar Al-Rashdan (Midfielder)

Al-Rashdan operates as the team’s anchor in midfield. His role is largely defensive, breaking up opposition attacks and maintaining balance, allowing the likes of Al-Tamari, Ali Olwan, and Yazan Al-Naimat to push forward.

World Cup challenge awaits

Jordan have been drawn into Group J for the 2026 FIFA World Cup, marking a historic first appearance at the tournament.

They will face a tough set of opponents in the group stage, including defending champions Argentina, as well as Algeria and Austria.

Recent form (DLWWW)

Jordan’s recent run of results shows a team capable of competing, but not without inconsistencies.

March 27 2026: Threw away a two goal lead to claim a 2-2 draw with Costa Rica

December 18 2025: Lost 3-2 after extra time to a second-string Morocco side in the final of the Arab Cup

December 15: Soared to a narrow 1-0 win over ten-man Saudi Arabia in the semifinal of the Arab Cup

December 12: Edged Iraq 1-0 in the knockout stage of the same tournament.

December 9: Powered to a convincing 3-0 victory over an under-strength Egypt to secure maximum points from the group stage of the Arab Cup.

Head-to-head record

Tuesday’s match will be only the third senior meeting between Nigeria and Jordan, with both sides having one win each.

Nigeria won the first encounter 2-0 in Lagos in April 2004, with goals from Emeka Akueme and Chukwudi Nworgu in the LG Cup semi-final. Jordan responded nine years later with a 1-0 victory in Amman. Captain Hatem Aqel scored the decisive goal against a Nigerian side coached by Stephen Keshi.

Notably, that result remains Nigeria’s only defeat to a Middle Eastern nation at senior level.

Rankings

Jordan are currently ranked 64th in the FIFA World Rankings, 36 places behind Nigeria.

Did you know?

Jordan’s heaviest defeat – a 6-0 loss to Norway – featured an opening goal from Antonio Musa, who was born to a Nigerian father.