Algeria meet Austria in a crucial Group J decider at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Come kick-off, both Algeria and Austria could know that a draw would see them both advance in third and second positions respectively.
Algeria however would leapfrog Austria into second with a win, although Algeria would still progress if lose by a two-goal margin at maximum.
Team News
Algeria have no fresh injury concerns to report following their 2-1 victory over Jordan.
Austria too have no fresh injury concerns to report following their 2-0 loss against Argentina.
When is Kick-Off?
Algeria meet Austria at Arrowhead Stadium, Kanas, USA, on Saturday 27 June at 9pm CDT (3am BST, Sunday 28 June), live on BBC Two and BBC iPlayer in the UK.
Stat Attack
- Algeria lost 2-0 in their only previous World Cup meeting against Austria.
- Fares Chaibi is the only Algeria player caught offside on one occasion so far in this tournament.
- Austria’s Marcel Sabitzer has converted just one of his four shots onto target.
Prediction
Although a draw would be enough for both teams to progress, Algeria have a chance to finish second but that likely means a Round of 32 tie against Spain so this is a case of where finishing third might be more beneficial in terms of knockout path.
The same likewise can be said of Austria who currently sit second but might actually feel that third could be the best route, especially after their sloppy defeat to Argentina despite having defensively frustrated them for much of the game and likely Round of 32 opponent – Spain have now found their gears.
On that note, I honestly can see this being cagey and wouldn’t be surprised if this is settled in injury time if there’s a late winner.
Prediction: Algeria 0-0 Austria