Ali Iyad Olwan Makes History as First Jordanian to Score in World Cup
Ali Iyad Olwan has etched his name in history as the first Jordanian player to score in a FIFA World Cup. This milestone was achieved on June 17, 2026, during a match against Austria held in San Francisco.
A Historic Goal for Jordan
Olwan made his mark in the first half by showcasing his skills on a counter-attack. He received the ball on the left wing, skillfully maneuvered into the box, and executed a precise right-footed shot that curled in off the post.
A Tribute to a Teammate
The celebration that followed was poignant. Olwan held aloft a No. 11 Jordan jersey as a tribute to his injured teammate, Yazan Al-Naimat. Al-Naimat sustained an anterior cruciate ligament (ACL) injury to his right knee during the FIFA Arab Cup quarterfinal match against Iraq.
Olwan’s Contributions to Jordan’s Football
Ali Iyad Olwan has been a standout performer for the Jordanian national team. His scoring prowess was evident throughout the 2026 qualifying campaign, where he netted nine goals. Additionally, he excelled at the 2025 Arab Cup, finishing as the tournament’s top scorer with six goals.
Club Football Achievements
- Current Club: Al-Sailiya
- League: Qatar Stars League
At just 26 years old, Olwan continues to be an influential forward in both international and club football. His historic goal not only celebrates individual achievement but also brings pride to Jordanian football on a global stage.


