Austria and Algeria's 3-3 Thriller Puts Both Teams Through
In a heart-stopping finale, Austria's Sasa Kalajdzic scored in the final seconds to tie Algeria 3-3, sending both teams into the World Cup knockout rounds. The dramatic draw also marked historic firsts for Austria and DR Congo while eliminating Iran from the tournament.
The ball sailed into the net with seconds left on the clock, and two entire nations erupted in celebration at once.
Austria's Sasa Kalajdzic headed home the equalizer in the dying moments of a wild 3-3 draw with Algeria in Kansas City on Sunday, capping one of the most dramatic World Cup group stage matches in recent memory. The result sent both teams through to the knockout rounds and eliminated Iran, who had hoped to advance as one of the best third-placed teams.
The match swung back and forth like a pendulum all afternoon. Veteran Austrian forward Marko Arnautovic opened the scoring in the 28th minute, but Algeria's Rafik Belghali leveled just before halftime with a stunning solo effort that saw him dance past three defenders.
Marcel Sabitzer restored Austria's lead in the 55th minute with a gorgeous strike from the edge of the box. But former Manchester City star Riyad Mahrez had other plans, equalizing just five minutes later with a powerful finish.
As the clock ticked past 90 minutes, both teams seemed content with a point that would send them both through. Then Mahrez struck again in the 93rd minute, appearing to seal Algeria's victory and second place in Group J.
Why This Inspires
What happened next will live in World Cup lore. With virtually no time remaining, Kalajdzic rose to meet a cross and powered his header past the goalkeeper, sparking scenes of pure joy on the Austrian bench.
The result means Austria reached the knockout rounds for the first time since 1982, ending a 44-year wait. Algeria matched their best World Cup performance from 2014 in Brazil, proving they belong on soccer's biggest stage.
Meanwhile in another Group J match, Lionel Messi came off the bench to score a free kick beauty in Argentina's 3-1 win over Jordan. The goal made Messi the first player ever to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches, surpassing legends like Just Fontaine and Jairzinho.
DR Congo also made history by reaching the knockout rounds for the first time, fighting back from a halftime deficit against Uzbekistan.
Austria now faces European champions Spain in the round of 32, while Algeria takes on Switzerland. Both teams will carry the momentum of an unforgettable afternoon into their next matches, proving that in soccer, it's never over until the final whistle blows.
More Images
Based on reporting by SBS Australia
This story was written by BrightWire based on verified news reports.
Spread the positivity!
Share this good news with someone who needs it
