Jordan Stalls Mali in Tunisian Friendly, Fueling Arab Cup Momentum

Match Summary

Jordan's national team continued its trend of avoiding wins by playing to a goalless draw with Mali in a Tuesday friendly at Hamadi Al-Aqrabi Stadium in Tunis.

Under Moroccan coach Jamal Al-Salami, the Desert Lions seemed more cohesive than in recent outings, with better team shape and moments of individual quality.

Jordan pushes forward as they prepare for the Arab Cup in Qatar from December 1-18, while eyeing a strong run and a confidence boost.

Mali, meanwhile, showcased flashes of speed and technique but paid the price for a lack of clinical finishing, leaving both sides craving a sharper edge.

The coach brought on Issam Al-Samiri and Ali Al-Hijabi to energize the flanks, and a late push nearly yielded a winner as Musa Al-Tamri forced a crisp intervention.

Yazeed Abu Leila was tested several times by Mali’s forwards but held firm, while Jordan’s defensive line remained compact for long stretches.

At the end, the stalemate extended Jordan's winless streak in warm-ups, though the performance offered more promise than previous friendlies.

Looking ahead, Jordan intends to press forward with a plan that balances defense and attacking intent, building momentum for the Arab Cup and a challenging road to 2026 World Cup qualification.

Sports analysts noted Jordan's improvement in structure and tempo, as the players delivered coordinated pressing and smarter ball circulation, even if the finishing touch remains a work in progress.

With the Arab Cup on the horizon and World Cup dreams not far behind, the team knows they must translate these glimpses of potential into results.

Punchline 1: If patience were a sport, Jordan would be world champions—sure, in extra time.

Punchline 2: The scoreboard didn’t blink, but my coffee did.