Sasa Kalajdžić’s stoppage-time equaliser rescued Austria in a dramatic 3-3 draw with Algeria

Austria and Algeria produced one of the most dramatic matches of the group stage. After a cagey opening, the game exploded late on. Riyad Mahrez’s composed finish in stoppage time looked to have sealed victory for Algeria, but Austria boss Ralf Rangnick’s gamble to introduce Sasa Kalajdžić paid off.

Softfootball earlier reported Austria secured their first FIFA World Cup victory since 1990 after defeating tournament debutants Jordan 3-1 in San Francisco to begin their Group J campaign on a winning note

In the 96th minute, Kalajdžić latched onto Michael Gregoritsch’s headed pass to secure a point and spark wild celebrations. Both teams advance to the knockout stage, while Iran’s campaign ends.

The match also highlighted standout individual performances: Ibrahim Maza impressed again for Algeria, while Kalajdžić’s impact off the bench earned him Player of the Match honors.

Player Ratings

Algeria

Austria

Match Statistics