Austria, Algeria draw 3-3 to reach World Cup knockouts as Iran go out

KANSAS CITY: Austria and Algeria shared a dramatic 3-3 draw in their final Group J match on Saturday, a result that sent both teams into the World Cup last 32 and ended Iran's hopes of progressing as one of the best third-placed sides.

The point left Argentina on top of the group, with Austria finishing second and setting up a knockout meeting with Spain. Algeria also advanced among the best third-placed teams and will face Switzerland in the next round.

Austria and Algeria both entered the match on three points, knowing a draw would be enough to take them through. That backdrop shaped much of the pre-match discussion, with both coaches responding irritably on Friday when asked about the possibility of a result that would suit both sides.

The game also revived memories of the 1982 World Cup's so-called Disgrace of Gijon, when Austria's 1-0 win over West Germany knocked Algeria out and led to lasting changes in tournament scheduling. But Saturday's contest unfolded as an open and eventful encounter rather than a cautious stalemate.

Austria strike first, Algeria answer before the break

Austria took the lead in the 28th minute through Marko Arnautovic with the first shot on target of the match. The 37-year-old met a long pass from David Alaba, and although his first touch was loose, Algeria goalkeeper Oussama Benbot hesitated off his line, allowing Arnautovic to finish.

Algeria threatened before halftime when Fares Chaibi hit the post, and they found their equaliser just before the interval through Rafik Belghali. After captain Riyad Mahrez kept the ball in play near the byline, Belghali drove past three defenders and fired into the top corner for his second international goal.

Second-half swings and late drama

Austria went back in front in the 55th minute. Konrad Laimer headed the ball down into the path of Marcel Sabitzer, who was found by a well-weighted return pass and scored first time from 18 metres for his 27th international goal.

That lead lasted only five minutes. Houssem Aouar surged down the left and cut the ball back for Mahrez, who curled his finish into the top corner beyond Alexander Schlager.

As the match moved into its closing stages, whistles and jeers were heard around the stadium and some supporters began leaving, fearing the game might end in the mutually helpful draw both teams had said would not be their aim.

Instead, the finale produced two stoppage-time goals. Mahrez appeared to have won it for Algeria deep into added time, sparking celebrations from his side, but Austria had one last response. Sasa Kalajdzic, on the field only moments, headed in an equaliser in the 96th minute to secure the point that carried both teams through.

After the final whistle, Journey's Don't Stop Believin' played over the stadium loudspeakers as Austria and Algeria celebrated qualification.