FIFA has decided not to investigate allegations that the World Cup group match between Algeria and Austria was fixed to allow both teams to advance to the knockout stages. The six-goal thriller ended in a 3-3 draw, with Austria scoring a stoppage-time equalizer in the 96th minute after Riyad Mahrez had put Algeria ahead three minutes earlier. The result ensured both sides progressed from the group.
Controversial Goal Sparks Suspicion
The equalizer followed a five-minute buildup involving 110 consecutive passes, which critics claim was engineered deliberately. Tensions flared during the match, with Austria's Marko Arnautovic seen arguing with the Algerian bench and gesturing angrily. Despite the controversy, FIFA sources have confirmed that the governing body is comfortable with the result and has no concerns about match-fixing.
Austria manager Ralf Rangnick dismissed the allegations outright. However, Mahrez did little to quell speculation, describing the final moments as "awkward." He said: "It was a bit awkward, to be honest. We were playing wide and they were sitting, but in the last minute someone plays a ball, he turns, and I have to make the run. I have to respect football. The ball arrives in front of the keeper and I have to score - I have to try to score. I know it's an awkward situation, but it's football, and I have to respect it. And the good thing for them (Austria), is that they score and they qualify. We both qualify, and that's the most important thing."
Knockout Stage Draw
Austria advanced in second place and will face European champions Spain in the round of 16. If they cause an upset, their next opponent would be either Portugal or Croatia. Algeria finished third in the group and will play Switzerland. A victory could set up a quarterfinal clash against Argentina, should both teams continue winning.
