Algeria secured qualification for the Round of 32 of the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 3-3 draw against Austria in a thrilling Group J encounter. The result allowed the Greens to finish their group campaign in a qualifying position, thanks to a strong comeback and late resilience in a match filled with twists and decisive moments.
The game started with Austria taking the lead through Marko Arnautović in the 28th minute after a well-timed through ball from David Alaba. Algeria responded with intensity and created several chances through Ibrahim Maza and Riyad Mahrez, but it was Austria who struck again early in the second half via Marcel Sabitzer (55’). At that moment, Algeria found itself briefly eliminated from qualification positions.
However, Riyad Mahrez ignited the comeback. First, he equalised in the 60th minute after a brilliant team move involving Houssem Aouar, before scoring again in the 90+3 minute with a clinical finish that appeared to secure victory for the Greens. Algeria controlled the closing stages and managed the tempo to protect its qualification hopes.
In a dramatic final twist, Saša Kalajdžić equalised for Austria in the 90+6 minute with a powerful header from a Sabitzer cross, sealing a 3-3 draw. Despite the late setback, Algeria held on to its position in the group standings and confirmed its qualification for the Round of 32, celebrating a hard-fought achievement in one of the tournament’s most intense matches.
