Algerian Radio
The Algerian national football team has officially qualified for the second round of the 2026 FIFA World Cup following a high-octane 3-3 draw against Austria. With this result, Les Verts bring their tally to four points in Group J, advancing to the knockout stage alongside Argentina and Austria.
All eyes were on Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, USA, this Sunday morning, as it hosted the decisive clash between the "Desert Warriors" and the Austrian side in the final round of the group stage. The battle was fierce for the second direct qualification spot in the Round of 32.
A High-Stakes Encounter
The match held immense significance for both teams. In a unique tournament twist, the winner was set to face Spain in the next round. However, the draw means that Austria (finishing 2nd) will face Spain, while Algeria (qualifying as one of the best 3rd-placed teams) is slated to meet Switzerland. Argentina had already secured the top spot in the group with a perfect record.
Lineup Adjustments
National selector Vladimir Petković made four changes to the starting lineup compared to the previous match against Jordan. Ben Bout stepped in for Zidane, Hadjam replaced Aït-Nouri, Aouar took the place of Boudaoui, and Bentaleb started instead of Zerrouki.
The Austrian side, led by stars like David Alaba and Marcel Sabitzer, maintained their core lineup including Alexander Schlager, Stefan Posch, Konrad Laimer, and Marko Arnautović.
Action-Packed First Half
Algeria started with high offensive pressure, but it was Austria that broke the deadlock in the 28th minute. Marko Arnautović capitalized on a precise through-ball from David Alaba and a miscalculation by goalkeeper Ben Bout to put Austria ahead.
Les Verts responded with intensity. After Farès Chaïbi hit the post in the 39th minute, Baghali managed to equalize just before the halftime whistle (45') with a powerful left-footed strike into the top corner, ending the first half at 1-1.
A Dramatic Second Half
The second half saw even greater intensity following tactical changes by both managers. Vladimir Petković introduced Cherki, Aït-Nouri, and Belaïd to stabilize the team.
However, Austria regained the lead in the 55th minute through a long-range strike by Marcel Sabitzer. Algeria’s reaction was swift; captain Riyad Mahrez equalized after a brilliant assist from Houssem Aouar.
The drama reached its peak in stoppage time. In the 90+2 minute, Riyad Mahrez scored what seemed to be the winning goal, sending the Algerian fans into a frenzy. Yet, Austria refused to surrender, and Sasa Kalajdžić managed to level the score with a last-gasp header, concluding the match in a spectacular 3-3 draw.
