Argentina finished top of Group J after beating Jordan 3-1, while Algeria and Austria played out an entertaining 3-3 draw in their final group-stage matches at the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
Argentina underlined their title ambitions in their convincing 3-1 win over Jordan when Giovani Lo Celso opened the scoring in the 19th minute before Lautaro Martinez doubled the lead from the penalty spot in the 31st minute.
Jordan reduced the deficit in the 55th minute through Mousa Tamari, who was assisted by Ehsan Haddad.
Lionel Messi then sealed the victory in the 80th minute with Argentina’s third goal, ensuring the South Americans ended their group campaign on a high note.
Jordan’s Abu Taha M. and Al Arab Y. were both booked during the encounter as Argentina controlled much of the contest.
Argentina advanced as Group J winners and are expected to face the runners-up of Group I in the Round of 32, while Austria, who finished second in the group is projected to face the winner of Group H.
Austria who faced Algeria in the second group stage match took the lead against Algeria in the 28th minute through Marko Arnautovic after a fine assist from David Alaba.
Algeria fought back and equalised on the stroke of half-time through Belghali R. to send both sides into the break level at 1-1.
The Europeans regained the advantage in the 55th minute when Marcel Sabitzer finished off a move created by Konrad Laimer.
They produced one of the most gripping encounters of the tournament so far, full of momentum swings and late heroics.
Austria led twice, but the North Africans fought back relentlessly.
When Riyad Mahrez fired home in the 93rd minute to make it 3-2, it appeared to be a goal that would give Algeria victory and eliminate Austria. But the Europeans struck again three minutes later, sending both into the round of 32.
“It was a serious, disciplined performance. We were solid,” Mahrez said. “In the end, we could have won it, but it’s a draw. The most important thing is to go through.”
As the second Group J winners Austria is projected to face the winner of Group H.
