Algeria secures its place in the World Cup round of 32 after a thrilling 3-3 draw with Austria in Kansas City (2026-06-28). The match was a back‑and‑forth affair that ended with points shared in the dying minutes, allowing Algeria to advance as the group’s third‑placed side.

What happened in the match?

Austria opened the scoring in the 28th minute through Marco Arnautović, then Algeria equalised when Rafiq Belghali missed a chance at the 45th minute. In the second half, Marcel Sabitzer restored Austria’s lead at 55’, but Riyad Mahrez answered quickly in the 60th. The decisive moments came in stoppage time; Mahrez netted the go‑ahead goal in the 90+3 minute, only for substitute Sasa Kalajdžić to level with a header in the 90+5 minute.

Why does this draw matter for Algeria?

After the "Gijón scandal" of 1982 that robbed Algeria of progression despite beating West Germany, today’s result rewrites that narrative. Finishing third guarantees a knockout‑stage clash with Switzerland, a fresh test after years away from the later stages. The draw also adds to the team’s current record: Recent form (last 5): 3W-1D-1L (DWLWW, most recent first), showing the side can hold its own under pressure.

What lies ahead for the team?

Algeria will prepare for the Swiss showdown on July 12, focusing on tightening the defence after conceding many chances to Austria. Coach Abdel Rahman Slatni highlighted the need to exploit the pace of Mahrez and Belghali on the counter‑attack. Meanwhile, midfielder Yacine Boubker’s possible move to a European club remains a hot topic among journalists.

How does this performance compare to 1982 memories?

In 1982, Algeria lost its chance because group matches were not played simultaneously, prompting FIFA to revamp the format. Today, the squad shows that those lessons have turned into tangible results on the pitch. The draw with Austria echoes the historic win over West Germany, but now adds a new chapter of resilience and achievement in the 2026 World Cup run.

Last result: Algeria 3-3 Austria (2026-06-28).