FIFA World Cup 2026: Iran knocked out as Austria, Algeria play out dramatic 3-3 draw

Austria and Algeria booked their places in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 after playing out a breathtaking 3-3 draw in their final Group J fixture on Saturday, with Sasa Kalajdzic's dramatic stoppage-time equaliser also sealing Iran's elimination from the tournament.

The pulsating contest in Kansas City delivered everything expected from a high-stakes World Cup clash.

Algeria looked set to claim all three points after edging ahead late in the match, but Austria refused to surrender.

Kalajdzic rose to the occasion six minutes into stoppage time, heading home a crucial equaliser that sparked wild celebrations among Austrian players and supporters.

The draw proved enough for Austria to finish second in Group J behind Argentina, while Algeria advanced as one of the tournament's best third-placed teams under FIFA's expanded 48-team format, which allows eight third-placed sides to progress to the Round of 32.

For Iran, however, the result brought painful disappointment. Having earlier drawn 1-1 with Egypt and finished third in Group G with three points, the Iranians were forced to rely on Austria defeating Algeria to keep their qualification hopes alive.

Instead, the draw pushed Algeria above the qualification line, ending Iran's campaign despite their spirited performances throughout the group stage.

The fixture had attracted global attention even before kick-off because of the qualification permutations.

Austria needed only a draw to secure second place in the group, while Algeria knew a point could also be enough depending on the rankings of third-placed teams across all 12 groups.

The dramatic finale ensured both nations celebrated together at the final whistle.

The result also carried historical significance beyond qualification. It was the first World Cup meeting between Austria and Algeria since their infamous 1982 encounter, remembered as the ‘Shame of Gijón’.

This time, instead of controversy, the two sides produced one of the tournament's most entertaining matches, combining attacking football with late drama in a six-goal thriller.

Austria will now enter the Round of 32 with renewed confidence after their remarkable escape, while Algeria continues their impressive campaign as one of the tournament's surprise packages.

Iran, meanwhile, leave the World Cup with their hopes dashed by one of the competition's latest and most dramatic goals.