Iran eliminated from 2026 World Cup after Austria‑Algeria draw

Iran entered the final group match with a statistical 90‑plus percent chance of reaching the 2026 World Cup knockout stage. The team needed either a win or a favorable result in the game between Austria and Algeria. The match ended 3‑3, with Austria scoring an equaliser in injury time. The late goal allowed Austria to advance and knocked Iran out, ending the Iranian campaign in the group stage.

Austria coach Ralf Rangnick described the finish as “something I have not seen in 40 years of coaching,” while Algerian coach Vladimir Petković called the match “a bit crazy, beyond the limits of tolerance.” The outcome sent Austria to the round of 16 and left Iran to file a formal complaint with FIFA over the circumstances of its elimination.