Jordan coach Jamal Sellami expressed pride in his players’ performance despite a narrow 3-2 extra-time defeat to Morocco in the final of the FIFA Arab Cup at Lusail Stadium on Thursday.
Speaking at the post-match press conference, Sellami said the final lived up to expectations, praising the high technical level shown by both teams after the match finished 2–2 at the end of regular time.
Despite conceding early, Sellami highlighted Jordan’s strong response in the second half, during which Ali Olwan scored twice – a header and a penalty in the 48th and 68th minutes – to put his side ahead. “The players gave everything and even exceeded expectations,” Sellami said. “We were very close to winning the title.”
He commended the fighting spirit, discipline, and collective effort of his squad but acknowledged that Morocco’s experience ultimately made the difference.
Morocco had taken the lead in the fourth minute through an audacious long-range strike from Oussama Tannane, whose shot from the centre circle caught advancing goalkeeper Yazeed Abulaila off guard. Abderrazzaq
Hamed Allah later proved decisive, scoring three minutes from the end of regulation time to force extra time before netting the winner from close range.
Sellami admitted there was regret over losing the title but stressed that Jordan’s long-term project remains on track, with the focus now turning to preparations for the 2026 World Cup, where Jordan are set to make their debut. “This generation has shown strong character,” he said. “The opportunity will be there for them to compete for titles in the future.”
He also emphasised the importance of developing Jordan’s domestic league to help nurture young talent capable of representing the national team at the highest level.
For Morocco, the Arab Cup triumph added to a growing list of achievements, despite the absence of several Europe-based players ahead of the Africa Cup of Nations.
The Atlas Lions continue to build on their historic run to the World Cup semi-finals in Qatar three years ago and recent successes across their youth teams, underlining the depth and strength of Moroccan football.