Teams from the Middle East and North Africa opened the FIFA World Cup without a victory, though several secured notable draws against higher-ranked opponents as attention now turns to a difficult slate of upcoming matches — including a regional showdown between Jordan and Algeria.Qatar, hosts of the 2022 World Cup, opened its campaign with a draw against Switzerland on June 13, while Morocco held fellow title contender Brazil to a draw the same day. Tunisia suffered a heavy 5-1 defeat to Sweden on June 14, while Turkey fell 2-0 to Australia.Egypt earned one of the region’s strongest results on June 15, drawing Belgium 1-1 despite Belgium entering the tournament ranked ninth in the world. Saudi Arabia also secured a 1-1 draw against Uruguay that day, while Iran played New Zealand to a 2-2 draw.Jordan lost to Austria 3-1 on Tuesday in its World Cup debut, with Ali Olwan becoming the first Jordanian ever to score in the tournament. His Royal Highness Crown Prince Al Hussein, accompanied by Her Royal Highness Princess Rajwa Al Hussein and members of the Royal family, attends Jordan’s national football team’s first match at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, against Austria.#Jordan pic.twitter.com/Yfzb246Pka— RHC (@RHCJO) June 17, 2026