Austria and Algeria advance to World Cup knockout stage after dramatic 3‑3 draw

Austria and Algeria secured qualification to the round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup by drawing 3‑3 in a highly dramatic group‑stage match. The game featured early leads, late equalisers and multiple stoppage‑time goals. Marko Arnautović opened the scoring for Austria, while Algeria responded through Belghali. Marcel Sabitzer later put Austria ahead, only for Riyad Mahrez to equalise for Algeria. Mahrez scored again in the 93rd minute, threatening Austria’s chances, but Michael Gregoritsch headed the ball to Sasa Kalajdzic, who completed the comeback in the 96th minute. Both sides celebrate the result, which ensures they will face each other’s next opponent in the knockout phase – Austria will meet Spain in the round of 16.

The match has been described as a showcase of football’s unpredictability, highlighting the intensity of World Cup competition and setting up a challenging encounter for Austria against one of the tournament’s favourites.