FIFA Unlikely To Probe Austria Vs Algeria World Cup Match Amid Match-Fixing Claims

FIFA are not expected to investigate claims that the World Cup group-stage meeting between Austria and Algeria was manipulated to ensure both countries reached the knockout stage.

Questions were raised after the dramatic 3-3 draw, which saw Austria snatch a 96th-minute equaliser to seal qualification alongside Algeria.

The result followed a remarkable late spell in which Riyad Mahrez had put Algeria ahead three minutes earlier, only for Austria to respond with almost the final kick of the game.

The equalising move featured a patient five-minute build-up involving 110 consecutive passes. At one stage, Austria looked destined for elimination, while emotions ran high on the touchline as Marko Arnautovic was seen arguing with members of the Algerian bench and gesturing in frustration.

The draw sent Austria through as Group runners-up, while Algeria advanced in third place.

The outcome prompted accusations from some observers that both sides had settled for a result that suited them, with critics claiming Algeria allowed Austria to equalise in the closing seconds.

However, Mirror reports that FIFA have dismissed those suggestions and are not concerned about the match or its outcome.

Austria manager Ralf Rangnick has also rejected any suggestion that the match was staged. Mahrez, though, admitted the closing moments felt unusual while insisting he had no choice but to play competitively.

“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,” he said.

“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.”

Austria now faces a daunting round of 32 tie against European champions Spain. Victory would set up a round of 16 tie against either Portugal or Croatia.

Algeria, meanwhile, will meet Switzerland in the knockout stage and could face Argentina in the last eight if both countries progress.