AFC Asian Cup
Having taken charge only in June, 2023, the Moroccan has plotted a title charge that had seemed unlikely even a week before the continental showpiece kicked off, with Jordan having suffered a 6-1 defeat to Japan in a friendly match.
Ammouta, however, turned his team around for their AFC Asian Cup challenge with Jordan getting stronger with each passing match at Qatar 2023.
Mousa Al Tamari, following the stunning 2-0 win over Korea Republic in the semi-finals, paid tribute to Ammouta's ability to galvanise his players.
"I must credit our coach, who emphasised the importance of enjoying ourselves. He instilled a winning mentality in us.
“The tactical discipline instilled by our head coach was crucial. He instilled confidence in us to not respect our opponents too much, while denying them space to attack," said Al Tamari.
But it was not just the Korea Republic match in which Jordan impressed in as they started their campaign with a resounding 4-0 win over Malaysia in Group E.
The Southeast Asian side had no answer to Ammouta's tactics, and the same applied to Korea Republic when the two sides met on Matchday Two.
Jordan were seconds away from winning the tie, with an own goal helping Korea Republic salvage a point.
Their concluding group fixture ended in a 1-0 defeat to Bahrain but that came after a spot in the Round of 16 had already been sealed.
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The knockout stage is where Jordan really served notice that they were the real deal, with Ammouta pushing his players all the way as they edged Iraq 3-2 while a controlled performance resulted in a 1-0 defeat of Tajikistan in the quarter-finals.
Against Korea Republic, Jordan produced yet another side to their game - going on the attack from the first blow of the whistle to leave Son Heung-min and his teammates gasping.
Ammouta, again, showed his tactical acumen by admitting that the decision to go on the offensive was decided after carefully analysing Korea Republic.
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"We agreed to start strongly, capitalising on the fact that Korea Republic had conceded eight goals in five matches. It was crucial to utilise our attacking abilities and seize the initiative to attack.
“We knew that our opponents would strike back, hence the focus remained on aggressive defensive tactics. However, it was our proactive approach and emphasis on attacking play that made us the more effective team. We displayed the mindset of champions, showing resilience and determination in every aspect of the game," said the 54-year-old Moroccan.
Having steered Jordan into a first ever AFC Asian Cup final, expectations have soared of them going all the way but irrespective of what happens on Saturday, Ammouta's place in Asian football history is assured.
