Argentina topped Group J after defeating Jordan 3-1. Algeria and Austria played a thrilling match that ended in a 3-3 draw in their last group-stage games at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
As the defending champions, Argentina finished first in Group J. They will face Cape Verde, the runners-up from Group H, in the Round of 32.
Argentina advanced as Group J winners. They are expected to meet the runners-up of Group I in the Round of 32. Austria, which came second in Group J, will likely face the winner of Group H.
Austria struck first against Algeria in the 28th minute. Marko Arnautovic scored after a nice assist from David Alaba.
Algeria fought back and equalised just before half-time. Belghali R. scored to send both teams into the break tied at 1-1.
Austria regained the lead in the 55th minute. Marcel Sabitzer scored a goal set up by Konrad Laimer.
Algeria responded again. Riyad Mahrez found the net in the 60th minute with an assist from Houssem Aouar, making it 2-2.
Arnautovic received a yellow card during a tense finish to the game. Austria appeared to have won when Sasa Kalajdzic scored in the 90+5 minute, assisted by Philipp Mwene.
Remarkably, Kalajdzic scored again just a minute later. He finished a pass from Michael Gregoritsch to complete his brace and secure a dramatic 3-3 draw for Austria.
Both Austria and Algeria moved on with the draw.
On the other hand, Argentina showed their title ambitions with a solid 3-1 win over Jordan.
Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring in the 19th minute. Lautaro Martinez doubled the lead from the penalty spot in the 31st minute.
Jordan pulled one back in the 55th minute. Mousa Tamari scored with help from Ehsan Haddad.
Lionel Messi sealed the win in the 80th minute with Argentina's third goal, ensuring the South Americans finished their group campaign on a high note.
Jordan's Abu Taha M. and Al Arab Y. both received yellow cards during the match, as Argentina controlled most of the game.
Argentina moves to the Round of 32 as Group J winners, while Austria also advances after finishing second.
Drop your comment
No comments yet — be the first to drop the gist 👇