Mahrez scores twice as Algeria qualify for the last 16 of the World Cup after a dramatic draw with Austria
Austria and Algeria secured places in FIFA World Cup Round of 16 after a thrilling 3-3 draw in the last game of Group J, with an injury-time equalizer sending both teams through and ending Iran’s hopes of qualification.
Austria looked set for elimination after Riyad Mahrez scored in the 93rd minute to give Algeria a 3-2 lead. However, substitute Saša Kalajdžić scored three minutes later to save the crucial point that confirmed Austria’s progress with Algeria.
The dramatic finish also eliminated Iran, who exited the tournament despite remaining unbeaten after drawing all three of their group games.
Late drama decides qualifiers
Austria opened the scoring through Marko Arnautovic, who controlled David Alaba’s long pass before finishing past goalkeeper Oussama Benbot.
Algeria responded before half-time when Rafik Belghali capitalized on a loose ball in the penalty area to score to level the scores.
Marcel Sabitzer restored Austria’s lead early in the second half with the first goal after Konrad Laimer’s break, but Algeria hit back again through Mahrez, who turned Houssem Aouar’s cross at the far post.
Both sides seemed to settle for the draw they needed and the game exploded into stoppage time.
Mahrez scored again in the 93rd minute to give Algeria the lead and leave Austria facing elimination. But Kalajdžić, who just entered the game, scored in the 96th minute and caused a wild celebration among the Austrian players and fans.
The knockout stage awaits
The draw ensured Algeria finished as one of the tournament’s best third-placed teams, while Austria finished second in Group J.
Austria will now face Spain in the Round of 16 in Los Angeles, while Algeria will play Switzerland in Vancouver.
The result also brought disappointment for Iran, whose hopes of reaching the knockout stage for the first time are high. Iran had earlier drawn 1-1 with Egypt, but a late goal was ruled out for offside following a VAR review, leaving them out of the qualification places despite finishing the group stage unbeaten.
