Six-goal thriller

Agency
Austria and Algeria played out a dramatic 3-3 draw in their final FIFA World Cup 2026 Group J fixture here at Arrowhead Stadium on Saturday, with two stoppage-time goals ensuring both sides progressed to the Round of 32 while Iran were eliminated from the tournament.

The thrilling encounter delivered six goals and a dramatic finish, as Austria secured second place in the group behind Argentina, while Algeria advanced as one of the best third-placed teams.

Austria made the brighter start and took the lead through veteran forward Marko Arnautovic, who finished calmly after timing his run perfectly to beat the Algerian goalkeeper.

Algeria responded just before the interval when Rafik Belghali produced a superb equaliser, leaving the sides level at 1-1 at half-time after an entertaining opening 45 minutes.

The second half continued at a frantic pace, with Austria regaining the advantage through Marcel Sabitzer.

However, Algeria once again fought back, this time with Captain Riyad Mahrez finding the net to restore parity and set up a tense finale.

As the match entered stoppage time, Mahrez appeared to have completed a remarkable comeback by firing Algeria into a 3-2 lead in the 93rd minute, seemingly securing all three points for his side.

Austria, though, refused to surrender. Deep into added time, Sasa Kalajdzic rose to the occasion and struck a dramatic equaliser in the 96th minute, sparking celebrations among the Austrian players and supporters.

The 3-3 draw proved enough for both nations to progress.

Austria finished runners-up in Group J and will now face Spain in the Round of 32, while Algeria qualified as one of the best third-placed teams and will take on Switzerland.

Group winners Argentina advanced to the knockout phase as table-toppers, while Iran’s World Cup campaign came to an end.