Written by Silas Gaughran-Bedell, (American University), Student Correspondent for CET Jordan, Spring 2024
I’ve always been an avid sports fan. However, like many other Americans, I struggled to get into the world’s most popular sport—soccer/football. Before arriving in Jordan, I knew I would have to open my mind and learn to appreciate the sport so important to many cultures around the world. This year’s Asia Cup provided not just me, but all of Jordan a reason to unite and watch history unfold as the Jordan national football team went on a historic run.
Jordan qualified for the round of 16 and had their first match against a tough opponent in Iraq. After finishing class, many students stayed to begin homework. But, we promptly set up a screen with the match to follow the event while working. While it looked like Jordan would lose, down 2-1 in extra time, two goals within minutes of each other kept their dream alive.
A few days later, CET students and Neighbors (جيران) piled into Samra café to watch them play Tajikistan. The café was packed to the brim with locals enjoying shisha (hookah) with family and friends, while nervously awaiting the match. After a goal on a header ricocheting off Tajikistan’s Vahdat Hanonov, Samra erupted with cheers. With Jordan’s 1-0 win, the energy was palpable as the streets were filled with proud Jordanians waving flags and keffiyehs in the air. Cars were blasting music and honking with joy.
Jordan had already made history as they headed into the semifinals of the Asia Cup to face South Korea for the first time in the country’s history. Cafes filled hours before the game started. The whole country tuned into what was the most important soccer match in the country’s history. At halftime, the game was tied 0-0. But, Jordan struck quickly in the second half with a goal in the 53rd minute. There was an eruption of noise not just from the café—but the whole city.
Another goal thirteen minutes later, and Jordan held on to their 2-0 lead. I had never seen a celebration like this before . Tens of thousands of people across the city of Amman piled into the streets. They were dancing together and basking in the country’s first qualification for the Asian Cup final. This was likely the most important sporting win in the country’s history.
While the fairytale run would eventually end with a 3-1 loss to Qatar in the final due to some questionable officiating, being in Jordan for such a special moment was truly unforgettable. Their performance against all odds. The unity of the country behind their team, and the welcoming of students into celebration and festivities with locals, was a warm introduction to Amman’s beautiful and kind culture.