A dramatic 3-3 draw between Austria and Algeria in Kansas City secured both teams' spots in the knockout stage of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The match's final minutes produced a stunning sequence of events that changed the tournament outlook for three nations.
For most of the second half, a 2-2 draw seemed to satisfy both teams. That changed in stoppage time when Algeria's Houssem Aouar and captain Riyad Mahrez combined for a spectacular goal, putting Algeria ahead and seeming to eliminate Austria.
With seconds remaining, Austrian manager Ralf Rangnick brought on towering striker Sasa Kalajdzic. Seconds after entering, Kalajdzic headed in the equalizer with his first touch, sending Austria through alongside Algeria and eliminating Iran.
Algeria's strength was its wing play. All three goals came from explosive moves down the flanks, featuring contributions from Mahrez and Aouar. However, a persistent goalkeeping problem remains a concern, as starter Oussama Benbot was at fault for Austria's first goal.
Austria's veteran core delivered. Real Madrid's David Alaba, 34, assisted Marko Arnautovic, who scored his 49th international goal. Bayern Munich's Konrad Laimer and Marcel Sabitzer, who earned his 100th cap in the previous match, combined for the second goal.
Both teams now advance to the round of 32, where Austria will face Spain.