What was the match summary?

Algeria secured a place in the World Cup 2026 round of 32 after a thrilling 3‑3 draw with Austria at Kansas City on 28 June 2026. The game saw constant swings until the final minutes, with Riyad Mahrez scoring Algeria's go‑ahead goal in the 90+3 minute before Austria's substitute Sasa Kalajdžic equalised in the 90+5 minute. Last result: Algeria 3-3 Austria (2026-06-28).

How did the "Gijón scandal" resurface?

The fixture revived the memory of 1982 when Algeria was eliminated after a controversial West Germany‑Austria match. Forty‑four years later, the Algerians wrote a new chapter by drawing with Austria, sparking renewed debate on FIFA's fairness. The governing body had already altered its rules to prevent a repeat, making this draw especially symbolic.

Who shone on the pitch?

Riyad Mahrez was the standout, restoring balance with a goal in the 60th minute and netting the winner in the 90+3 minute. Rafiq Belghali displayed flair, dribbling past three defenders before striking the roof of the net before the hour mark. Mahrez also helped build attacks throughout the game.

What does this mean for Algeria's next steps?

With qualification secured, Algeria will meet Switzerland in the round of 32, a tie that could decide a path to the last eight. Recent form (last 5): 3W-1D-1L (DWLWW, most recent first), indicating the side enters the tournament with growing confidence. Coach Didier Deschamps is now fine‑tuning defensive setups and set‑piece efficiency ahead of the Swiss clash.

How are fans reacting?

Algerian supporters flooded social media with the chant "We are the Desert Warriors," recalling the Gijón episode. The renewed enthusiasm reflects a national desire to script a fresh story on the world stage, free from the shadows that have long haunted the team.