KANSAS CITY, Missouri, June 28 (ANI) — Algeria and Austria played out a sensational 3-3 draw in their final Group J fixture of the FIFA World Cup 2026, securing qualification for both sides while eliminating Iran from the tournament.
The high-stakes encounter began cautiously in Kansas City, with neither side willing to take unnecessary risks during the opening stages despite knowing a draw would be enough to progress.
The game came alive after the first hydration break when Austria captain David Alaba delivered a pinpoint long pass that split the Algerian defence, allowing Marko Arnautović to finish calmly and give Ralf Rangnick’s side the lead.
Algeria responded strongly, with Rafik Belghali narrowly missing before Farès Chaibi struck the post. Their pressure was rewarded just before halftime when Belghali produced a brilliant solo effort, dribbling past two defenders before smashing the ball into the net to level the score.
Austria regained the lead early in the second half through Marcel Sabitzer, who converted a precise cutback from Konrad Laimer.
However, Algeria once again hit back, with Houssem Aouar setting up Riyad Mahrez for a composed finish at the far post to make it 2-2.
As the match approached its conclusion, both sides appeared to settle for the draw, but stoppage time delivered extraordinary drama. Mahrez struck in the 93rd minute with a low finish that appeared to have sealed victory for Algeria.
In a dramatic finale, Austria responded almost immediately as substitute Sasa Kalajdžić rose highest to head in a last-gasp equaliser with virtually the final kick of the game.
The pulsating draw ensured Algeria advanced as one of the best third-placed teams, while Austria finished second in Group J. Iran’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage were officially ended as both sides progressed after a thrilling encounter.
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