Jordan hold Russia to goalless draw in Moscow friendly

Jordan continued their build-up for a first FIFA World Cup appearance in 2026 with a 0-0 draw against Russia in a friendly played at Otkrytie Bank Arena in Moscow on Thursday.

Coach Jamal Sellami’s side started brightly, pressing high and carving out the first clear chance when Ali Olwan went through one-on-one, only to be denied by the Russian goalkeeper.

Russia, banned from FIFA and UEFA competitions since the outbreak of the Ukraine war in 2022, responded midway through the first half. Dmitriy Vorobyov forced Yazeed Abulaila into a strong save with a low drive, before narrowly missing the target five minutes later.

Jordan nearly went ahead before half-time when Yazan Naimat attempted a delicate chip over the advancing keeper, but the effort was stopped.

Backed by their home fans, Russia pressed harder in the second half and came close from a dangerous cross on the right, but no player was able to connect. At the other end, Jordan’s star Musa Taamari fired just over the bar with a long-range strike in the 75th minute.

Both sides pushed forward in the final 10 minutes in search of a winner, but the goalkeepers stood firm to ensure the match ended scoreless.

The Nashama will continue their preparations with another friendly against the Dominican Republic in Amman on Tuesday.