Austria, Algeria seal Round of 32 spots after thrilling 3-3 draw at FIFA World Cup 2026

The Algeria vs Austria final group J clash turned out to be a thriller, packed with drama and excitement. Although the match ended in a 3-3 draw, it proved to be a spectacle for fans, with both teams securing qualification for the Round of 32.The game remained goalless in the opening stages before Austria found the breakthrough in the 28th minute. Marko Arnautovic calmly slotted the ball past Algerian goalkeeper Oussama Benbot to give his side the lead.

Algeria responded quickly, with Riyad Mahrez producing a brilliant dribbling display before setting up Rafik Belghali for the equaliser.Austria regained the advantage early in the second half as Marcel Sabitzer stepped up and found the back of the net.

However, Algeria captain Mahrez once again rose to the occasion, scoring a crucial equaliser in the 60th minute to keep his side in the contest.

Austria survives late scare

The drama intensified in stoppage time when Mahrez struck again to put Algeria 3-2 ahead. Just when it seemed Austria were heading for elimination, substitute Sasa Kalajdzic came to the rescue, scoring a late equaliser to make it 3-3 and secure Austria's place in the next round.

The result saw Austria reach the knockout stage for the first time since 1982, while Algeria advanced beyond the group stage for only the second time, following their memorable run in 2014.With Argentina already guaranteed to finish at the top of the group, Austria secured second place and qualified for the knockout stage. They will now face Spain at the Los Angeles Stadium on July 2.Algeria also progressed to the next round, becoming the 9th African team to qualify after finishing among the tournament's eight best third-placed teams. They are set to take on Switzerland in Vancouver on the same day.