Before kick-off, Algeria’s match against Austria looked set to become one of the strangest games of the 2026 World Cup.
Many believed neither side had much reason to win. Based on the knockout bracket, losing could have meant a more favourable opponent in the next round.
The situation brought back memories of the infamous “Disgrace of Gijón” at the 1982 World Cup, when West Germany’s 1 nil win over Austria sent Algeria out of the tournament. After that controversy, FIFA ordered that the final group matches should always be played at the same time.
Although both Group J matches kicked off simultaneously this time, the tournament bracket still created an unusual situation where defeat appeared more attractive than victory.
In the end, both teams produced an entertaining contest. Austria took the lead in the 28th minute when Marko Arnautović finished after a pass from David Alaba.
Algeria equalised just before half-time through Rafik Belghali, who scored from a Riyad Mahrez assist. Marcel Sabitzer restored Austria’s lead early in the second half with a strike from 18 metres.
Six minutes later, Mahrez made it 2 to 2 after meeting a cross from Houssem Aouar. The drama continued deep into stoppage time.
Mahrez scored his second goal in the 93rd minute to put Algeria ahead. It was his 39th international goal and his first at a World Cup after four appearances at the tournament. At that point, Algeria looked set to go through while Austria seemed to be heading out.
But Austria struck back three minutes later. Substitute Saša Kalajdžić headed home after a flick on from Michael Gregoritsch to make it 3 to 3 and send Austria into the knockout stage.
The draw was enough for both teams to qualify. Austria finished second in Group J and will face Spain in Los Angeles on 2 July.
Algeria progressed as one of the best third-placed teams and will play Switzerland in Vancouver on the same day. Iran were eliminated.
