Austria and Algeria played out a dramatic 3-3 draw in their World Cup group-stage finale on Saturday night, a result that allowed both sides to advance to the knockout round while eliminating Iran from the tournament.

The match in Group J was tightly contested and remained level at 2-2 heading into the closing minutes, with both teams aware that the outcome would determine their fate in the competition.

Algeria appeared to be managing the final moments after captain Riyad Mahrez scored his second goal in stoppage time, seemingly pushing Austria to the brink of elimination.

However, Austria responded almost immediately, with substitute Sasa Kalajdzic heading in a crucial equaliser moments later to keep Das Team’s World Cup campaign alive.Austria also received goals from Marko Arnautovic and Marcel Sabitzer, helping them finish second in the group behind Argentina.

This result marks Austria’s first advancement to the knockout stage since 1982, and they will now face European champions Spain in Los Angeles in the Round of 32.

For Algeria, Rafik Belghali also contributed a goal as Les Fennecs finished third in the group but still progressed as one of the qualifying teams, setting up a match against Switzerland in Vancouver.

Despite their exit, Iran had been in contention to advance as one of the best third-placed teams but were ultimately eliminated due to the draw between Austria and Algeria.