Austria rescued their World Cup campaign with a dramatic stoppage time equaliser to draw 3-3 with Algeria in a pulsating Group J finale that sent both nations into the knockout rounds.
Austria struck first through Marko Arnautovic midway through the opening half, only for Algeria to hit back just before the interval when Rafik Belghali levelled the scores.
Marcel Sabitzer restored Austria’s advantage shortly after the restart, but Algeria again responded quickly as Riyad Mahrez drew the North Africans level with half an hour remaining.
The drama intensified deep into stoppage time when Mahrez struck again in the 93rd minute, seemingly sending Algeria through at Austria’s expense and opening the door for Iran to progress.
But Austria had the final word. Substitute Sasa Kalajdzic rose to head home with virtually the last touch of the match in the 96th minute, sparking wild celebrations and ensuring Austria advanced as Group J runners up behind Argentina.
The result sent Algeria through as one of the tournament’s best third placed teams, while Iran suffered a heartbreaking exit on goal difference despite their draw with Egypt earlier in the day. Austria will now face Spain in the Round of 32, while Algeria take on Switzerland for a place in the last 16.
Faridah Abdulkadiri
