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KANSAS CITY, Missouri, June 27, 2026 – Algeria and Austria both reached the Round of 32 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup after a dramatic 3-3 draw in their final Group J match at Kansas City Stadium. Austria, which entered the game needing at least a point to guarantee progression, went ahead in the 28th minute when striker Marko Arnautovic controlled a long ball from midfield and fired a low shot past Algeria goalkeeper Oussama Benbot. Algeria increased the pressure and almost leveled when Fares Chaibi struck the woodwork, then finally equalized in the 41st minute through defender Rafik Belghali after an unusual buildup in which a deflected ball bounced off the corner flag and stayed in play. Captain Riyad Mahrez reacted first to retrieve the ball and set up Belghali, who dribbled past several Austrian defenders before finishing to make it 1-1 at halftime. The second half featured more swings in momentum, with both sides trading attacking chances in a high-tempo contest that saw multiple lead changes and late drama. Austria restored its advantage in the 55th minute when Nicolas Seiwald reached the goal line and cut the ball back for Marcel Sabitzer, who struck a first-time shot from 18 yards that beat Benbot for 2-1. Algeria responded just five minutes later, pushing forward down the left through Houssem Aouar to pull level again and keep its qualification hopes on track. The game built to a chaotic finish, with both teams scoring in stoppage time to complete the 3-3 scoreline and ensure they each collected the point they needed. The result confirmed progression for Algeria and Austria while mathematically eliminating Iran from contention in Group J.

By Michael Grant | JQJO News