Jordan's Arab Cup Campaign Signals A National Team Ready For Bigger Challenges

(MENAFN- Jordan Times) AMMAN - Jordan's Arab Cup journey offered a compelling illustration of how far the national team has progressed in a relatively short period. Across six matches, the Nashama combined results with consistency, finishing the tournament as runners-up while delivering performances that suggested a team no longer defined by moments, but by identity.

The campaign began with a composed 2–1 victory over the United Arab Emirates, followed by a confident 3–1 win against Kuwait that secured early qualification from the group. Jordan then produced one of its most complete displays with a 3–0 triumph over Egypt, topping the group with a perfect nine points.

In the knockout stages, the Nashama showed a different side of their development, edging Iraq 1–0 in the quarterfinals before repeating the score line against Saudi Arabia in the semifinals. The final against Morocco was settled only in extra time, with Jordan narrowly losing 3–2 after a highly competitive contest.

Central to this progression was the influence of head coach Jamal Sellami. His work was evident in the team's structure and balance, blending attacking intent with defensive organisation. Jordan scored 12 goals, conceded just five, kept three clean sheets and managed to score in every match, indicators of a side operating within a clear tactical framework. Sellami's approach allowed individual quality to emerge without compromising collective discipline, a balance that has often been elusive in previous cycles.

Beyond the technical aspects, the tournament was marked by strong institutional and public backing. The Nashama received recognition from the Royal Family, with His Royal Highness Crown Prince Hussein attending the final and supporting the team, in line with the Royal Family's continued commitment to backing Jordanian youth and national teams in international competitions. That presence carried symbolic weight, reinforcing the sense of belief surrounding the squad.

Equally influential were the Jordanian supporters, who turned Qatar into a near-home environment for the team. Match after match, the stands were filled with Jordanian fans, creating an atmosphere that lifted the players and reflected a growing connection between the team and its supporters. For many fans, this tournament represented a rare opportunity to witness the national team competing deep into a major competition with genuine ambition.

Another encouraging development was the return and impact of domestic-league talent, particularly Odah Fakhoury of Hussein Irbid. The left winger's contributions were defined by intelligence and efficiency, providing width, movement and balance on the flank. His performances underlined the increasing readiness of local-league players to contribute at international level within a structured system.

Taken together, Jordan's Arab Cup showing offers genuine cause for optimism. The performances suggested a national team that now carries credibility into every challenge it faces. With a clearer identity, growing depth and renewed belief, the Nashama appear better equipped than ever to assert themselves in upcoming regional and international competitions, a team that has earned the right to be taken seriously in any test ahead.

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