FIFA’s group stage rules and the legislation around how teams progress to the knockouts has created a strange scenario in Group J.
Austria and Algeria meet this evening knowing a draw will send both through to the Round of 32. Neither side can win the group, due to their head-to-head record against Argentina, therefore there isn’t a huge incentive to win this match, other than a more favourable knockout tie for finishing second rather than third.
Currently, it is Austria who sit second in Group J, ahead of Algeria by virtue of goals scored.
Algeria vs Austria predictions
Despite the low-stakes nature of this game on paper, there is World Cup history between Austria and Algeria.
At the 1982 World Cup hosted in Spain, the North Africans could have progressed from the group stage had Austria avoided defeat against West Germany in the final group game.
A day earlier, Algeria had played their final match of the group and their fate remained in the hands of the two European nations, who played out a tepid encounter, each advancing to the knockouts.
The West Germans won 1-0 in a game which was subsequently dubbed ‘the Disgrace of Gijon‘.
Even if other results go their way, Scotland will have one eye on this match because if points are shared, the Scots are out and heading home.
A two-goal or greater victory for Austria is the outcome that Scotland fans will be crossing their fingers for.
Algeria vs Austria score prediction
There’s only one way this game finishes, isn’t there? ‘The Disgrace of Kansas City’ – it’s got a ring to it.
- Score prediction: Algeria 1-1 Austria