Kalajdzic Stoppage-Time Header Rescues Austria in Six-Goal Group J Thriller
Match statistics
View Group J fixtures →- Marko Arnautovic 28'(David Alaba)
- Rafik Belghali 45'
- Marcel Sabitzer 55'(Konrad Laimer)
- Riyad Mahrez 60'(Houssem Aouar)
- Riyad Mahrez 90+3'(Houssem Aouar)
- Sasa Kalajdzic 90+6'(Michael Gregoritsch)
- Marko Arnautovic 11'
HT 1–1|Poss 65–35%|Shots 12–10|SOT 5–3
MOTM: Riyad Mahrez
Sat, Jun 27, 2026 • 21:00 (Kansas City local)
Algeria and Austria drew 3–3 at Kansas City Stadium in the most dramatic finish of the group stage. Marko Arnautovic and Marcel Sabitzer put Ralf Rangnick's side ahead either side of Rafik Belghali's equaliser, Riyad Mahrez struck twice in the second half — including a 93rd-minute effort that briefly looked decisive — but substitute Sasa Kalajdzic headed in from Michael Gregoritsch's flick in the 96th minute to rescue Austria's World Cup.
Vladimir Petkovic's Algeria finished with 65% possession, 12 shots and five on target to Austria's 10 and three in front of 69,045 fans. Riyad Mahrez was named Superior Player of the Match after his brace, while Arnautovic was booked in the opening exchanges. The draw sent both teams into the last 32 and knocked IR Iran out on three points from three draws.
Austria finish second in Group J on goal difference and will face Spain in the round of 32. Algeria advance as one of the best third-placed teams and meet Switzerland. Argentina top the section with a perfect nine-point record after beating Jordan in Dallas.