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Austria and Algeria secured places in the FIFA World Cup round of 32 after playing out a dramatic 3-3 draw in Kansas City, with both teams advancing from Group J following a breathtaking finish that ended Iran’s hopes of progressing.
The result confirmed Austria as Group J runners-up, while Algeria claimed the final qualification spot among the tournament’s eight best third-placed teams. The outcome also ensured Iran’s elimination despite the Asians remaining unbeaten throughout the group stage.
The encounter bore none of the caution that had surrounded the infamous 1982 “Disgrace of Gijon”, when West Germany and Austria played out a result that eliminated Algeria. Instead, both sides attacked throughout in a contest that produced six goals and one of the tournament’s most dramatic conclusions.
Austria struck first in the 28th minute when Marko Arnautovic controlled David Alaba’s long pass before steering his effort beyond goalkeeper Oussama Benbot. Algeria responded just before the interval after Fares Chaibi rattled the post, with Rafik Belghali reacting quickest to blast home the rebound and level the scores.
The Austrians regained the advantage 10 minutes after the restart as Marcel Sabitzer side-footed Konrad Laimer’s cut-back into the net. Their lead lasted only five minutes, however, as Riyad Mahrez converted Houssem Aouar’s inviting cross at the far post to make it 2-2.
With the match appearing destined for a draw, the drama unfolded in stoppage time. Mahrez fired home his second goal of the night in the 93rd minute to put Algeria 3-2 ahead, a strike that briefly lifted the North Africans into second place and left Austria facing elimination.
However, Austria produced one final twist. Substitute Sasa Kalajdzic, who had been on the pitch for barely a minute, rose to head home in the 96th minute and rescue a priceless draw. The equaliser sparked wild celebrations among the Austrian players and supporters as both nations sealed their places in the knockout rounds.
Mahrez, making his first World Cup goals at the age of 35, was instrumental in Algeria’s qualification, while Aouar supplied both assists. Kalajdzic’s dramatic intervention also made history, with Austria becoming the first side to avoid defeat in a World Cup match after trailing beyond the 90-minute mark.
Austria will now face Spain in the round of 32 in Los Angeles on Thursday, while Algeria take on Switzerland in Vancouver on Friday.
