Algeria and Austria played out a dramatic 3-3 draw on Sunday that sent both teams into the FIFA World Cup round of 32 and ended Iran’s hopes of reaching the knockout stage.
The result was enough for Austria to finish second in Group J on goal difference, while Algeria advanced as one of the best third-placed teams.
Austria struck first in the 28th minute through Marko Arnautovic. Algeria hit back just before half-time with one of the most unusual goals of the tournament. A crossfield pass crashed into the corner flag and bounced back into play. Riyad Mahrez reacted first before Rafik Belghali dribbled into the box and fired home.
Austria regained the lead 10 minutes into the second half when Marcel Sabitzer scored from outside the box. Algeria responded quickly as Mahrez equalised five minutes later to make it 2-2.
The match slowed after the second hydration break as both teams held a result that would send them through. However, the drama returned in stoppage time.
Mahrez looked to have won the match for Algeria with a goal in the 93rd minute, a strike that would also have sent Iran into the knockout stage at Austria’s expense.
Austria refused to give up. Deep into added time, Sasa Kalajdzic rose highest to head home a dramatic equaliser in the 96th minute and rescue a 3-3 draw.
The late goal secured Austria second place in the group and a round of 32 meeting with Spain. Algeria also progressed and will face Switzerland.
For Iran, the late equaliser ended hopes of reaching the World Cup knockout stage for the first time in the country’s history. After overcoming travel and logistical challenges throughout the tournament, they bowed out in heartbreaking fashion.
