Jordan’s preparations for their historic maiden FIFA World Cup appearance suffered a setback on Sunday evening were defeated 4-1 by Switzerland in an international friendly at Kybunpark Stadium, St. Gallen.
The match formed a key part of Jordan’s build-up towards the FIFA World Cup 2026, with the team continuing to fine-tune its preparations ahead of its first-ever appearance on football’s biggest stage.
The fixture was attended by Prince Ali bin Al Hussein, President of the Jordan Football Association, alongside Peter Knäbel.
Jordan fielded a starting lineup featuring goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila, defenders Ehsan Haddad, Saad Al-Rousan, Yazan Al-Arab, and Mohammad Abualnadi, while the midfield and attack included key figures such as Mousa Al-Taamari, Mahmoud Al-Mardi, and Ali Olwan.
Playing in front of their home supporters, Switzerland began aggressively and quickly imposed themselves on the contest. Jordan struggled to contain the hosts’ attacking intensity during the opening period, conceding three goals before halftime as Switzerland seized complete control of the match.
The early deficit exposed several defensive vulnerabilities, but it also provided valuable lessons for head coach Jamal Sellami and his staff as they continue shaping the squad for the challenges awaiting in North America.
Jordan emerged with renewed energy after the break following a series of tactical adjustments and substitutions from Sellami.
The changes immediately improved the team’s rhythm and attacking output. Substitute Odeh Al-Fakhouri rewarded the coach’s faith by pulling a goal back in the 52nd minute, giving Jordan a deserved breakthrough after sustained pressure.
Al-Nashama created several additional opportunities throughout the second half and looked far more organised compared to the opening 45 minutes. Despite their inability to reduce the deficit further, the performance offered positive signs and demonstrated the squad’s resilience against high-level opposition.
Following the defeat, Sellami stressed that the primary objective of the friendly schedule is not results but preparation.
The Moroccan tactician highlighted the importance of identifying strengths and weaknesses, analysing mistakes, and making the necessary improvements before the tournament begins.
With Jordan preparing to compete against elite international opposition, matches of this nature provide invaluable experience for a squad entering uncharted territory on the world stage.
Jordan will now travel to the United States on June 1 for a training camp in San Diego, which will run until June 10.
As part of the camp, Al-Nashama will face Colombia in their final pre-World Cup friendly on June 7 at Snapdragon Stadium, providing one last opportunity to fine-tune preparations before the tournament kicks off.
The Jordanian delegation will then establish its official World Cup base camp in Portland.
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