Jordan vs Costa Rica: A Friendly Match with World Cup Aspirations

“For us, we are not going just for participation,” stated Noor Al-Rawabdeh, reflecting the determination of the Jordanian national team as they prepare for their first World Cup appearance. This sentiment was echoed during their recent friendly match against Costa Rica on March 27, 2026, held at the Mardan Sports Complex in Antalya, Turkiye.

Jordan secured their spot in the World Cup by finishing second behind South Korea in their Asian qualifying group. As they gear up for the tournament, which will take place from June 11 to July 19, they are keen to make a mark on the global stage.

The friendly against Costa Rica was part of a four-team regional tournament, which also includes Iran. Originally set to be hosted in Jordan, the tournament was relocated to Turkiye due to the ongoing war in the Middle East, adding a layer of complexity to their preparations.

In the match against Costa Rica, Jordan’s Ibrahim Sabra scored the team’s second goal, contributing to their ongoing efforts to build momentum ahead of the World Cup. The friendly showcased not only their skills but also their aspirations to achieve more than just participation.

Mohammad Abu Alnadi expressed the team’s excitement, saying, “It’s truly amazing. All of us are excited. It’s one of the highest levels any player can play.” This enthusiasm is palpable among the players as they look forward to competing against top-tier teams.

Head coach Jamal Sellami emphasized the unpredictability of big competitions, recalling Morocco’s remarkable semifinal run in the last World Cup. He noted, “In big competitions, many teams can surprise. My country Morocco reached the semifinals in the last World Cup,” highlighting the potential for underdog stories.

Jordan’s players are not just aiming for participation; they are driven by a desire to make history. “We want to go as far as possible — like any other team — and make history again,” said Abu Alnadi, encapsulating the team’s ambitions.

As they continue to prepare, Jordan will face tough opponents in Group J, including Austria, Algeria, and Argentina. The friendly against Costa Rica serves as a crucial stepping stone in their journey.

With two wins for each team in the tournament, Jordan currently stands one point ahead of Costa Rica in the standings. The outcome of this friendly match could provide valuable insights as they refine their strategies and build team cohesion.

As the World Cup approaches, Jordan’s players and coaching staff remain focused on their goal of making a significant impact on the world stage. Details remain unconfirmed regarding their next steps, but the excitement within the squad is undeniable.