World Cup 2026: Algeria 3-3 Austria Player Ratings

Algeria secured a place in the Round of 32 after a breathtaking 3-3 draw with Austria in one of the most dramatic matches of the 2026 FIFA World Cup. Riyad Mahrez rolled back the years with two goals and a sensational rating, but Sasa Kalajdzic’s last-gasp equaliser ensured the spoils were shared in a six-goal thriller in Kansas City. Both nations advanced, while Iran suffered heartbreaking elimination on goal difference.

Match Report

The contest carried enormous historical significance, coming 44 years after the infamous 1982 World Cup meeting between the two countries. This time, however, there was nothing controversial about the entertainment on display.

Austria struck first in the 28th minute when Marko Arnautovic finished clinically to put Ralf Rangnick’s side ahead. Algeria responded brilliantly just before halftime as right-back Rafik Belghali surged forward and found the net to level matters at 1-1.

The Austrians regained the advantage shortly after the interval through Marcel Sabitzer, but Algeria’s captain Riyad Mahrez once again proved decisive. The veteran winger curled home a superb effort in the 60th minute to make it 2-2 and ignite the Desert Foxes.

As stoppage time approached, Mahrez produced another moment of brilliance, scoring his second goal of the evening in the 94th minute to seemingly hand Algeria victory and send Iran through as one of the best third-placed teams. Yet the drama was not over. Barely a minute later, substitute Sasa Kalajdzic headed home with virtually the final touch of the game to rescue Austria and confirm qualification for both teams.

Algeria Player Ratings

Goalkeeper

Oussama Benbot – 5.2

A difficult evening for the goalkeeper, who conceded three times and struggled with Austria’s aerial threat.

Defence

Rafik Belghali – 7.2

Scored Algeria’s opening goal and delivered an energetic display on the right flank.

Aissa Mandi – 6.5

Provided leadership at the back despite the defensive challenges.

Ramy Bensebaini – 6.3

Worked hard but found Austria’s movement difficult to contain.

Jaouen Hadjam – 6.4

Showed attacking intent before being replaced in the second half.

Midfield

Nabil Bentaleb – 7.2

Controlled possession effectively and linked defence with attack.

Ibrahim Maza – 8.8

One of Algeria’s standout performers. Creative, composed and influential throughout the contest.

Fares Chaibi – 7.3

An energetic performance filled with intelligent movement and quality passing.

Attack

Riyad Mahrez – 9.0

The undisputed star of the night. Two goals, leadership, creativity and a performance worthy of his legendary status. He briefly thought he had won the match with his dramatic stoppage-time strike.

Houssem Aouar – 7.4

Scored once and consistently found dangerous positions in the final third.

Amine Gouiri – 6.6

Worked tirelessly up front before making way late in the contest.

Substitutes

Rayane Ait-Nouri – 6.3

Added fresh legs down the left side.

Zineddine Belaid – 6.5

Helped steady the defence during the closing stages.

Samir Sophian Chergui – 6.2

A solid but unspectacular cameo.

Farès Ghedjemis – N/A

Introduced too late to receive a meaningful rating.

Verdict

Riyad Mahrez produced one of the performances of the tournament, while Ibrahim Maza and Houssem Aouar also impressed in an exhilarating encounter. Algeria may have surrendered victory with the final touch of the match, but qualification for the knockout rounds marks another historic achievement for the Desert Foxes. They will now face Switzerland with confidence and momentum firmly on their side.