Austria and Algeria became the final two nations to secure their passage into the World Cup knockout rounds after a pulsating 3-3 draw in Kansas City, with Saša Kalajdžić’s dramatic 96th-minute equaliser denying the African side a famous victory.
The result at GEHA Field ensured both teams advanced from Group J, with Austria claiming second place on superior goal difference and Algeria sneaking through as one of the best third-placed sides. Marco Arnautović broke the deadlock in the 28th minute, but Rafik Belghali levelled on the stroke of half-time. Marcel Sabitzer restored Austria’s lead ten minutes after the interval, only for Riyad Mahrez to equalise in the 60th minute. Mahrez completed his brace in the third minute of added time to put Algeria ahead for the first time, yet Kalajdžić struck just moments later to rescue a share of the spoils and spark wild Austrian celebrations.
The stalemate means nine of Africa’s ten representatives have advanced to the last 32, with Tunisia the sole exception. Austria’s goal-difference advantage proved decisive in the race for runners-up, while Algeria’s four-point haul was enough to secure a best-third-place berth.
In the group’s other fixture, Argentina – already assured of progress – cruised past Jordan 3-1 in Texas to finish top with a perfect nine-point haul, with Lionel Messi adding his sixth goal of the tournament from the bench. Jordan, who had already been eliminated, ended their campaign without a point.
