Algeria Comeback 2-1 Over Jordan in 2026 World Cup Group J
Algeria defeated Jordan 2-1 in Santa Clara (near San Francisco) on June 22/23, 2026, coming from a 1-0 halftime deficit. Jordan led with a 36th-minute goal by Nizar Al-Rashdan. Algeria equalized in the 69th minute via a Nadhir Benbouali header, then won in the 82nd minute via Amine Gouiri. The victory kept Algeria's knockout hopes alive while eliminating Jordan, which was making its World Cup debut.
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Riyad Mahrez's admission fuels match-fixing accusations after Algeria-Austria World Cup draw eliminates Iran
A controversial 3-3 draw between Algeria and Austria in the 2026 World Cup group stage has sparked widespread match-fixing allegations. The result allowed both teams to advance to the Round of 32 while eliminating Iran. Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez scored a dramatic 93rd-minute goal, causing anger from Austria's bench and confusion among his own teammates. Austria then equalized in the 96th minute, securing the draw needed for both sides. In a post-match interview, Mahrez admitted the situation was 'awkward' and questioned 'what do I do?' when the ball came to him, adding fuel to accusations. Iranian fans have demanded an official investigation. Both managers denied any pre-arranged agreement.
CaughtOffsideFIFA Decides Not to Investigate Algeria vs Austria World Cup Match Over Fixing Allegations
FIFA has decided not to investigate the World Cup group stage match between Algeria and Austria following match-fixing allegations. The game ended in a 3-3 draw, with both teams scoring in stoppage time, allowing each to advance to the knockout rounds. Critics pointed to Algeria's lengthy 110-pass buildup before Riyad Mahrez's goal and Austria's 96th-minute equalizer as suspicious. Austria coach Ralf Rangnick dismissed the claims, while Mahrez admitted the ending felt 'awkward' but insisted he respected the game. FIFA has expressed no concerns about the result. Austria will face Spain next, while Algeria will play Switzerland.
Mirror - Football2026 World Cup: Algerian Fans Celebrate Austria's Equalizer to Avoid Spain in Round of 16
During the 2026 World Cup group stage match between Algeria and Austria, which ended in a 3-3 draw, Algerian fans were filmed celebrating Austria's late equalizer in the 93rd minute. The celebration was not for the draw itself but because the result ensured Algeria would avoid facing Spain in the Round of 16, instead drawing Switzerland. The match saw Riyad Mahrez score Algeria's third goal, but Sasa Kalajdzic equalized just before the final whistle. The article notes scenes of joy among Algerian supporters, contrasting with the despair of Iran, who depended on a loss by either team to advance. The event sparked discussion about potential match-fixing, though teams denied any calculation.
Home Football - actualitésAlgeria Captain Mahrez Defends Late Goal Against Austria in World Cup Drama
In a dramatic 2026 World Cup group stage finale, Algeria and Austria played to a 3-3 draw, but not without controversy. With the score at 2-2, both teams appeared to agree to a non-aggression pact, as a draw would send both to the knockout round. However, Algeria's Riyad Mahrez scored in the 93rd minute to take a 3-2 lead, temporarily eliminating Austria. Mahrez defended his goal post-match, stating he had to 'respect the football' and finish the chance. Austria's Sasa Kalajdzic then equalized in the 96th minute, saving Austria and sending them to face Spain in the round of 32, while Algeria advanced to face Switzerland. The match was described as the 'biggest drama of the World Cup group stage.'
Nachrichten - WELTAlgeria Captain Riyad Mahrez Delivers Emotional Pre-Match Speech Before Dramatic 2026 World Cup Draw with Austria
Algeria captain Riyad Mahrez delivered a passionate pre-match speech to his teammates before a crucial 2026 World Cup group stage match against Austria, urging them to 'play to win' and make history for their country. The 35-year-old winger reminded the squad that Algeria had only qualified for the Round of 16 once before (in 2014). The match ended in a dramatic 3-3 draw, with Mahrez scoring a late 3-2 goal before Austria's Sasa Kalajdzic equalized in stoppage time. Despite the draw, both teams advanced. The game was marked by high emotion and tension, with post-match reports denying any calculation to manipulate the result. Algeria will face Switzerland next, while Austria will play Spain in the Round of 16.
Home Football - actualitésAlgeria and Austria Defend Dramatic 3-3 Draw Amid Conspiracy Theories at 2026 World Cup
In a match reminiscent of the infamous 1982 'Disgrace of Gijon,' Algeria and Austria played to a chaotic 3-3 draw in the 2026 World Cup group stage, a result that allowed both teams to advance to the knockout rounds while eliminating Iran. Conspiracy theories quickly spread on social media, with Iranian fans and some observers accusing the teams of staging the match due to a series of suspicious moments, including a late 93rd-minute Algeria goal that was immediately equalized by Austria in the 96th minute. Both managers—Austria's Ralf Rangnick and Algeria's Vladimir Petkovic—vehemently denied any collusion, calling the accusations 'mad' and praising the dramatic nature of the game. The draw saw Austria finish second in Group J and Algeria qualify as one of the best third-placed teams. Austria will face Spain next, while Algeria takes on Switzerland.
BBC SportAlgeria & Austria Defend 'Unexpected' World Cup Draw Amid Conspiracy Theories
Algeria and Austria played a dramatic 3-3 draw in the 2026 World Cup, a result that sent both teams through to the knockout stage and eliminated Iran. The match has sparked conspiracy theories, drawing comparisons to the infamous 'Disgrace of Gijon' in 1982, where Austria and West Germany were accused of playing out a mutually beneficial result. Iranian fans called on FIFA to investigate, citing clips of players appearing to 'go through the motions' and a late, chaotic finish that included two injury-time goals. Austria manager Ralf Rangnick dismissed the claims as 'mad,' stating the unpredictable final minutes proved there was no agreement. Algeria manager Vladimir Petkovic said 'football prevailed' with the 3-3 scoreline. Austria will face Spain in the last 32, while Algeria plays Switzerland.
BBC SportAfter World Cup Drama Against Austria, Algerian Star Riyad Mahrez Defends His Goal
Algerian star Riyad Mahrez defended his stoppage-time goal against Austria in a 2026 World Cup group stage match that ended 3-3. With the score tied 2-2 and both teams content to draw—which would have secured knockout qualification for both—Mahrez broke the deadlock in the 90+3rd minute by converting a long pass, making it 3-2 for Algeria. This goal could have eliminated Austria and forced Algeria to face Spain in the next round. Austria equalized in the 90+6th minute through Kalajdzic, allowing both teams to qualify: Algeria as group third-placed finishers (facing Switzerland) and Austria avoiding elimination. Mahrez said he felt compelled to score out of respect for football, despite the awkward situation, acknowledging that the mutual qualification was the most important outcome. The match generated controversy as both teams had apparently been playing for a draw before Mahrez's intervention.
BILD - SportMahrez breaks alleged draw 'deal' in Algeria-Austria match, cites respect for football
In a controversial Group J match of the 2025 Under-20 World Cup (or similar tournament), Algeria and Austria appeared to have an unspoken agreement to play for a draw, which would have guaranteed both teams qualification to the round of 32. With the score at 2-2, Algerian captain Riyad Mahrez scored in the 90+3 minute to make it 3-2, breaking the perceived 'script.' Mahrez later admitted both teams knew a draw was beneficial but stated he had to 'respect football' when presented with a clear scoring opportunity. Austria equalized in the 90+6 minute through Sasa Kalajdzic to make it 3-3, allowing both teams to qualify. The match drew scrutiny for its unusual endgame, with players appearing to delay or avoid attacking moves before Mahrez's unexpected goal.
RecordAlgeria 3-3 Austria: Mahrez Goal Sparks Bracket Drama Ahead of Round of 16
Algeria and Austria played out a thrilling 3-3 draw in the 2026 FIFA World Cup group stage. The result confirmed that Algeria will face Switzerland in the Round of 16. However, a dramatic moment occurred when Algeria's Riyad Mahrez scored a goal that briefly put them ahead, which would have set up a Round of 16 match against Spain instead. This potential change in opponent prompted a reaction from analyst Walid Acherchour, who as an Algerian expressed conflicted feelings about Mahrez's goal, questioning 'but why does he score?' given the tougher path it would have created. The article captures the intense stakes and emotional swings of World Cup positioning, with the draw ultimately sending Algeria to a different knockout bracket path.
Home Football - actualitésAlgeria-Austria World Cup Draw Controversy: Mahrez's Late Goal Nearly Broke 'Pact' to Avoid Spain
In a bizarre World Cup Group J match, Algeria and Austria appeared to have an unspoken agreement to draw, as both teams would qualify with a draw but a win would force the winner to face Spain in the round of 16. Despite this, Algeria's Riyad Mahrez scored a dramatic 90+3' goal to put his team ahead 3-2. Video footage shows some Algerian players looking distressed rather than celebrating, as the victory would mean facing Spain instead of Switzerland. Fans and streamers also reacted with alarm to the goal. However, Austria's Sasa Kalajdzic equalized in the 90+6', restoring the 3-3 draw and the mutually beneficial outcome. After the match, Austria's Marko Arnautovic angrily confronted the Algerian bench, accusing them of violating the apparent pact. The incident sparked widespread discussion about match-fixing perceptions and tactical cynicism in international football.
RecordRiyad Mahrez goal triggers chaotic World Cup finish, Austria panic, and Iran elimination
In a dramatic Group J match at the 2026 World Cup, Algeria and Austria played to a 2-2 draw that initially seemed mutually beneficial for both to advance, recalling the infamous 'Disgrace of Gijon' from 1982. However, Algeria's stoppage-time goal by Riyad Mahrez—following a sequence of 110 passes—sparked chaos as Austria panicked, fearing elimination. Austria then equalized in the final moments, sparing themselves but ultimately eliminating Iran from the round of 32. The analysis breaks down the sequence, the psychology of the 'biscotto' (mutually beneficial result), and the frantic conclusion that turned a seemingly tactical draw into a thrilling finish.
Soccer - The AthleticAlgeria vs. Austria World Cup Draw Sparks Chaos: 110-Pass Move, Mahrez Goal, Iran Eliminated
In a dramatic Group J final match at the 2026 World Cup, Algeria and Austria played a 3-3 draw that initially seemed beneficial to both teams' knockout qualification chances but ended in chaotic stoppage-time. Algeria scored a stunning goal after a 110-pass sequence, with Riyad Mahrez finishing at age 35 for his first World Cup goal, putting Algeria ahead 3-2. Austria equalized in the dying moments. The result ensured both teams advanced, eliminating Iran, who finished third in Group G. The article draws parallels to the 'Disgrace of Gijon' in 1982, noting simultaneous group matches prevent such collusion, but this match featured surprising goals and a thrilling conclusion.
Soccer - The AthleticAlgeria vs Austria World Cup draw creates chaos: 110-pass move, Mahrez goal, Iran eliminated
An analysis of the dramatic stoppage-time events in the 2026 World Cup Group J match between Austria and Algeria. A draw was sufficient to send both teams through, but Algeria scored a 110-pass move goal via Riyad Mahrez in the 87th minute, putting them ahead 3-2 and threatening to eliminate Austria. Austria equalized moments later, resulting in a 3-3 draw that allowed both to advance, but eliminated Iran, who had finished third in Group G. The article draws parallels to the 1982 'Disgrace of Gijon' and details the chaotic final minutes.
Soccer - The AthleticMahrez: 'It was a small goal in the back of my mind'
Algeria drew 3-3 with Austria in Kansas City, securing both teams' advancement to the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup at the expense of Iran. Algeria qualified as one of the best third-placed teams. Captain Riyad Mahrez scored a brace, and Rafik Belghali also scored. Mahrez, who had never scored in a World Cup before, said that scoring was a 'small goal' he had set for himself, but emphasized that putting the team ahead was most important. Algeria will face Switzerland in Vancouver in the Round of 16.
Foot - actualités, mercato, info & vidéo en continuRangnick: If Hitchcock Had Written This Script, He Would Be Considered Crazy
Austria head coach Ralf Rangnick expressed disbelief and joy after his team drew 3-3 with Algeria in the final round of the World Cup group stage, scoring an equalizer in stoppage time to advance to the knockout stage for the first time in 44 years. Rangnick described the match's final 90-120 seconds as unbelievable, comparing the drama to a screenplay by Alfred Hitchcock. He addressed tactical decisions, including three half-time substitutions due to heat and humidity, and defended the team's defensive approach. Rangnick praised Algeria's individual talent but questioned whether the entire Algerian team wanted to win in stoppage time. He expressed sympathy for Iran, who were eliminated, and looked ahead to Austria's 'next final' against Spain. Rangnick highlighted the fighting spirit of his squad, particularly praising midfielder Sascha Kirchsteiger for scoring the decisive goal after a rapid rise to the national team.
虎扑 - 足球Sabitzer: We Were Hypnotized by Algeria After 2-2, It Wasn't Our Plan
In a dramatic World Cup group stage finale, Austria drew 3-3 with Algeria, securing second place. Midfielder Marcel Sabitzer described a rollercoaster of emotions, from conceding a late Mahrez goal to equalizing through substitute Sascha Kalajdzic. He admitted the team became 'hypnotized' and too passive after the 2-2 scoreline, failing to press high or push forward despite his warnings. Sabitzer highlighted Algeria's quality, especially Mahrez's performance, and criticized the team's defensive mindset. Looking ahead, he acknowledged the difficulty of facing Spain in the next round, praising their ball control and depth. He also praised Kalajdzic for his emotional impact after a tough period. Sabitzer declined to discuss tournament format fairness, saying they must accept the rules.
虎扑 - 足球Algerian Defender Belgherbi: Intended to Pass, But Scored After Noticing No Markers
Algerian defender R. Belgherbi gave an interview after Algeria's 3-3 draw with Austria in the final round of the World Cup group stage, which secured their advancement to the knockout stage. Belgherbi described his goal as opportunistic: he intended to cross from a corner, but when the ball returned to him and he saw no defenders nearby, he shot with his left foot and scored. The goal unlocked a difficult situation for the team after Austria had taken the lead. Despite frustration over conceding a late equalizer, Belgherbi expressed satisfaction with advancing. When asked about facing Spain or Switzerland in the next round, he stated the team is ready for any opponent.
虎扑 - 足球Austria's last-minute equalizer hero Kalajdzic: I was shocked that it actually went in, and also relieved.
In the final round of the World Cup group stage, Austria drew 3-3 with Algeria. After the match, Kalajdzic, who scored the equalizer for Austria, gave an interview. He described being shocked and relieved by the goal, which came after an unplanned substitution in the 95th minute. Kalajdzic noted the team was not taking risks late in the 2-2 game, but after Algeria took the lead, he was sent on with simple instructions to get the ball in by any means. He reflected on his journey from joining LASK to making this dramatic contribution for the national team, calling it one of the best moments of his career. He acknowledged his performance in the first game was subpar but said no one cares now. The team will enjoy the moment before focusing on the round of 16.
虎扑 - 足球Austria and Algeria Draw 3-3 in Dramatic World Cup Group Match
In a 2026 World Cup group stage match in Kansas City, Algeria and Austria played a 3-3 draw that featured a bizarre period of apparent non-aggression followed by wild stoppage-time drama. For the first hour, the game was entertaining, but from the 65th to 91st minute, both teams engaged in sterile passing with minimal attacking intent, reminiscent of the 1982 'Disgrace of Gijon' match. Then, in added time, Riyad Mahrez scored for Algeria to seemingly win the game, only for Austria substitute Sasa Kalajdzic to equalize with his first touch in the 96th minute. The draw allowed both teams to advance to the knockout stage at the expense of Iran. Coaches Ralf Rangnick and Vladimir Petkovic defended the match's integrity, calling it a dramatic Hollywood ending.
Soccer - The Athletic