Austria and Algeria secured places in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32 after playing out a thrilling 3-3 draw in their final Group J match, with a stoppage-time equaliser sending both teams through and ending Iran’s hopes of qualification.
Austria looked set for elimination after Riyad Mahrez scored in the 93rd minute to give Algeria a 3-2 lead. However, substitute Sasa Kalajdzic headed home three minutes later to rescue a crucial point that confirmed Austria’s progress alongside Algeria.
The dramatic finish also knocked out Iran, who exited the tournament despite remaining unbeaten after drawing all three of their group matches.
Late drama decides qualification
Austria opened the scoring through Marko Arnautovic, who controlled David Alaba’s long pass before finishing past goalkeeper Oussama Benbot.
Algeria responded before half-time when Rafik Belghali capitalised on a loose ball inside the area and fired home to level the scores.
Marcel Sabitzer restored Austria’s advantage early in the second half with a first-time finish from Konrad Laimer’s cut-back, but Algeria replied again through Mahrez, who converted Houssem Aouar’s cross at the far post.
With both sides appearing to settle for the draw they needed, the game exploded into life in stoppage time.
Mahrez struck again in the 93rd minute to put Algeria ahead and leave Austria facing elimination. But Kalajdzic, who had only just entered the match, headed home in the 96th minute to spark wild celebrations among the Austrian players and supporters.
Knockout stage awaits
The draw ensured Algeria finished as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams, while Austria claimed second place in Group J.
Austria will now face Spain in the Round of 32 in Los Angeles, while Algeria take on Switzerland in Vancouver.
The result also brought disappointment for Iran, whose hopes of reaching the knockout stage for the first time were ended. Iran had earlier drawn 1-1 with Egypt, but a late goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR review, leaving them outside the qualification places despite completing the group stage unbeaten.
