Algeria secured a spot in the Round of 32 at the 2026 World Cup after a dramatic 3-3 draw with Austria in Kansas City (2026-06-28). The match featured constant swings, ending with a point each that guaranteed the North African side a third‑place finish in the group.

What happened in the match?

Austria opened the scoring in the 28th minute through Marko Arnautović, but Algeria answered quickly when Rafiq Belghali dribbled past three defenders and struck a shot that hit the roof of the net before halftime. The second half saw a goal from Marcel Sabitzer (55'), then Riyad Mahrez restored parity (60'). In the dying minutes, Mahrez added Algeria’s go‑ahead goal (90+3'), only for Sasa Kalajdžić to equalise for Austria (90+5').

Why does this game recall the "Gijón scandal"?

The fixture revived memories of the 44‑year‑old "Gijón scandal" that knocked Algeria out of the 1982 World Cup despite beating West Germany. That controversy forced FIFA to synchronize the final group‑stage matches to ensure fairness. Now, with Algeria back on the world stage, the draw serves as a symbolic revenge and a reminder of restored justice.

What does this qualification mean for Algeria?

Advancing to the Round of 32 pits Algeria against Switzerland, a clash that could decide whether the team continues its resurgence or returns to the drawing board. Riding a recent form of DWLWW – three wins, one draw, one loss – the squad appears to be in good rhythm. Coach emphasizes sharpening the defence that let a substitute score for Austria in the final minutes, while preserving the attacking spark shown by Mahrez and Belghali.

What lies ahead for the national side?

Following the match, Algeria will head into an intensive training camp in the United States before facing Switzerland. The technical staff aims to tighten the back line while keeping the forward thrust that produced three goals against Austria. If the momentum holds, Algeria could become one of the tournament’s surprise packages.

Last result: Algeria 3-3 Austria (2026-06-28). Recent form (last 5): 3W-1D-1L (DWLWW).