June 28: Austria scored a dramatic stoppage-time equaliser to earn a thrilling 3-3 draw against Algeria, with both teams securing qualification for the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32.
The decisive moment came deep into injury time when Sasa Kalajdzic headed home in the closing seconds, rescuing a crucial point for Austria and keeping its World Cup campaign alive.
Austria finished second in Group J with four points, edging through on goal difference, while Algeria also progressed as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams.
Marko Arnautovic gave Austria the lead in the 28th minute after latching onto a long pass from David Alaba, before Rafik Belghali equalised for Algeria just before halftime.
The second half produced a flurry of goals. Marcel Sabitzer restored Austria’s advantage in the 55th minute, only for Riyad Mahrez to score twice, including a stoppage-time strike that appeared to have secured a dramatic victory for Algeria.
However, Austria had the final say. Moments after Mahrez’s late goal, Michael Gregoritsch headed the ball across goal for Sasa Kalajdzic, who powered home a close-range header to make it 3-3 and spark wild celebrations among the Austrian players.
The dramatic equaliser proved decisive for the tournament standings. A defeat would have eliminated Austria, while Algeria’s victory would have changed the knockout matchups. Instead, Austria advances to face Spain in the Round of 32, while Algeria will take on Switzerland.
The result also ended Iran’s hopes of progressing as one of the best third-placed teams after narrowly missing out on qualification.
Austria’s resilience and last-gasp comeback ensured its place in the knockout rounds, while Algeria also lived to fight another day after an entertaining six-goal contest.
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