Austria ended Group J with four points, which is good for ending as the second seed in the group below Argentina, who ended first with a perfect 9/9 points. The results also state Austria end as third, with a total of four points as well.

The result means that three teams from Group J will feature in the Round of 32. After all, Algeria did enough to be considered one of the best eight third places in the 2026 World Cup group stage.

Who will Austria face in the Round of 32?

By placing second on Group J, Austria will have a tough draw and face Spain in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup. The game will be played on July 2 in Los Angeles. For a team that hasn’t been precisely dominant like Austria, facing a contender it’s just a bad-dealt hand.

Austria is still a tough team, though. Spain won’t have it easy, but it’s clear it will come as the sizable underdog for the game. Austria should see a silver lining in the fact that Spain lost Nico Williams for this game, and haven’t looked as a world-beater in this tournament.

Who will Algeria face in the Round of 32?

Algeria will face Switzerland on July 3 at BC Place, Vancouver, Canada. This is a weird case where ending third gave a more “favorable” matchup than ending second. Now, it’s up to Algeria to produce the goods.

Group J final standings

As of June 27, Austria is the 22nd-ranked national team in the world. That puts them six spots ahead of Algeria, which enters this game at No. 29 after dropping one spot in the latest ranking update.

While the FIFA rankings are a solid benchmark for evaluating the 48 national teams competing in the 2026 World Cup, underdogs can always pull off an upset. Take Cape Verde, for example, despite its low ranking, the team managed to defy the odds and qualify for the knockout stage.

What do Austria and Algeria need to do to climb the rankings?

If Austria and Algeria want to move up in the FIFA rankings, they simply need to win more games. Securing strong results, such as advancing past the group stage, racking up draws, and avoiding losses, is the most direct way to stack up ranking points.

While the formula FIFA uses to calculate these rankings is fairly complicated, it essentially boils down to this: teams need to win tournaments, lift trophies, and consistently perform well in FIFA-sanctioned competitions.

The worst rankings for Austria and Algeria

The last time Algeria hit rock bottom in the FIFA rankings was in 2008, when they plummeted to their worst-ever spot at No. 103. Austria fared even worse that same year, dropping to No. 105 during what was a rough stretch for both programs.

Algeria’s goal is the same as Austria’s: secure a win to solidify its path to the knockout stage. With both teams desperate for a single victory, this match could prove challenging for referee Ilgiz Tantashev, who lacks extensive World Cup experience.

It’s no coincidence that Kansas City Stadium is hosting another gritty matchup. That’s exactly why this venue was chosen. It will host not only group stage games but also knockout stage matches, which could cause ticket prices to skyrocket on the resale market.

City and stadium

Kansas City, a vibrant sports hub with a city population of over 523,000 residents, is welcoming soccer fans with an incredible atmosphere. The famous local venue, well known for its energetic NFL usage as the home of the Chiefs, has transitioned beautifully into a world-class soccer stage.

The iconic stadium boasts a massive tournament capacity of 69,045 seats to handle the immense global demand. In total, the venue will have 6 games, including 2 highly anticipated group stage fixtures and 4 high-stakes matches for the knockout stage.

Attendance and weather

Local organizers and FIFA officials expect a near-sellout crowd tonight, as World Cup matches in Kansas City are on pace to completely pack the venue. Kansas City Stadium has an official tournament capacity of 69,045 seats, and recent fixtures at the stadium, including Argentina vs. Algeria, have drawn maximum capacity crowds.

For the Algeria vs. Austria match tonight at 9:00 PM in Kansas City, the weather will be partly cloudy with a comfortable temperature of 26°C that feels like 29°C. Fans and players can expect a dry evening with a 0% chance of rain, though the humidity will be quite high at 82%. A gentle breeze will blow across the stadium at a speed of 7 mph coming from the southeast.

Tantashev’s first World Cup match was Scotland vs. Morocco, a game that wasn’t as physical as expected. He issued just two yellow cards despite the 19 fouls and 30 tackles committed during that group stage contest.

Algeria must win this game to solidify its chances of reaching the knockout stage. This matchup against Austria should be crucial for them, especially playing against a team that has nothing left to lose in this tournament.

Tantashev’s experience

Tantashev might only have one World Cup match under his belt as a referee, but he knows what it takes to work a national team game and deal with demanding managers. He previously officiated in the 2024 Olympic Games, the 2026 Asian World Cup Qualifiers, and an international friendly in 2025.

Tantashev averages 3.84 yellow cards per game over his career. This relatively low average could give Algeria and Austria some leeway to commit minor fouls without immediately receiving a yellow or red card.

It’s not that Algeria is one of the most physical of the 48 national teams in the World Cup, on the contrary, they have only received one yellow card so far. However, they must find a way to stop an Austria squad that has collected three yellow cards in the group stage and plays a slightly more physical style.

Austria come as second in the group with three points and a 0 goal difference number. This come thanks to a 3-1 win over Jordan, but then a 0-2 loss to Argentina in Matchday 2.

When it comes to Algeria, they lost the first game 0-3 vs Argentina thanks to a Lionel Messi hat-trick, but then bounced back against Jordan and won 1-2. Hence, Algeria have three points and a -2 goal difference.

What happens if Austria win vs Algeria?

Austria would secure the second-spot of Group J and therefore, get a spot in the Round of 32 of the 2026 World Cup. There is no way for Austria to leapfrog Argentina as they lost the head-to-head matchup.

Hence, the best place Austria can aspire to get is the one they hold before the game starts, which is second place. Still, a win would lift the morale and boost the team’s hopes for next round, where they could face Spain.

What happens if Austria tie vs Algeria?

A tie between Austria and Algeria is controversial because it ensures both teams advance to the next round while eliminating other competitors, reviving painful historical memories of the infamous 1982 World Cup “Disgrace of Gijon.” In this case, Algeria would be one of the best third places.

Ironically enough, the Disgrace of Gijon involved precisely these two teams. Austria and West Germany played their final group match knowing a 1-0 German victory would advance both European teams and eliminate Algeria. After an early goal by Germany, no team was eager to attack. Now, Algeria won’t be the affected, but one of the participants of the match.

What happens if Austria lose vs Algeria?

If Austria loses to Algeria, Austria drops to third place in Group J and risks near-total elimination. While a very narrow defeat might technically allow them to squeak through as one of the best third-placed teams via goal difference, Algeria would automatically jump to second place.

If Austria lose by one goal, they would still be in contention for a wild card as they’d have more goals scored than South Korea, though a DR Congo win vs Uzbekistan would leave them out of the best eight third places.

Group J standings ahead of Matchday 3

How to watch Algeria vs Austria in the USA

Soccer fans across the United States will be able to watch this highly anticipated clash live on FS1 and Telemundo through traditional TV coverage.

Those preferring to stream can follow the action on Fubo, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue, Hulu + Live TV, and Peacock Premium.

Can I watch Algeria vs Austria for free?

U.S. fans can stream this highly anticipated matchup live on Fubo or DirecTV Stream. Eligible new subscribers may qualify for a five-day free trial.

Both platforms offer nationwide live coverage, allowing viewers to follow every key moment and decisive play as it happens.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Everything is on the line as Austria and Algeria meet in their final group-stage match with second place still available.

Both teams have three points after defeating Jordan and losing to Argentina, but Austria holds the advantage on goal difference.

A draw would be enough for Austria to advance, while Algeria must push for a win to keep its tournament hopes alive. With qualification at stake, expect an intense battle from the opening whistle.

Algeria vs Austria: Predicted Lineups

Algeria (4-4-2): Raïs M’Bolhi; Mohamed Belghali, Aïssa Mandi, Ramy Bensebaini, Rayan Aït-Nouri; Riyad Mahrez, Hicham Boudaoui, Nabil Bentaleb, Ibrahim Maza; Adil Boulbina, Amine Gouiri.

Austria (4-2-3-1): Alexander Schlager; Konrad Laimer, Kevin Danso, David Alaba, Phillipp Mwene; Nicolas Seiwald, Xaver Schlager; Romano Schmid, Carney Chukwuemeka, Marcel Sabitzer; Marko Arnautović.

What time is the Algeria vs Austria match?

The match kicks off today, June 27, at 10:00 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 10:00 PM
Central Time: 9:00 PM
Mountain Time: 8:00 PM
Pacific Time: 7:00 PM

With this result, Jordan are officially eliminated from the World Cup, as the squad is mathematically unable to surpass any of the teams in the group. Jordan lost to Austria 3-1 and to Algeria 2-1. With both of those opponents sitting on 3 points in the group, and because both won the head-to-head tiebreaker, it means the Jordanian squad is locked into finishing below them.

Their final encounter will be against Argentina, who have already surged ahead with 6 points to secure their qualification to the Round of 32. Consequently, Jordan are left with no remaining hopes of advancing, though they undoubtedly enjoyed the experience and fought as hard as they could to hold their country’s name high.

Group J standings

Algeria complete historic comeback

When it seemed like Jordan were cruising toward a victory that would keep them alive in the 2026 World Cup, Algeria found answers in the second half to turn around a match that had become far more complicated than expected. Goals from Nadhir Benbouali and Amine Gouiri allowed the “Desert Foxes” to flip the scoreline and salvage their aspirations in Group J.

The Algerian national team went into the halftime break trailing following a goal from Nizar Al Rashdan, who capitalized on a defensive error to put Jordan ahead. However, the African squad came out determined to change the narrative in the second half.

Ibrahim Maza was one of the team’s most persistent players. He first tested the goalkeeper with a medium-range shot that forced goalkeeper Yazeed Abu Laila to clear with his fists, and just minutes later, he tried again following an individual effort that flashed wide.

The Algerian pressure finally paid off in the 68th minute. Nadhir Benbouali won an aerial battle inside the box and connected with a powerful header that left the Jordanian goalkeeper with no chance. When the matchup seemed destined for a draw, Amine Gouiri appeared to spark the Algerian celebration. In the 81st minute, the attacker took advantage of another offensive surge to slot home the 2-1 winner, completing a comeback fueled by character and perseverance.

On the flip side, Jordan bounces into this game fresh off a loss. As of June 22, they rank 68th in the world, dropping five spots recently to sit at 1372.29 points. To stop the slide and avoid group-stage elimination, they desperately need a win.

This matchup promises to be highly entertaining, especially with a World Cup veteran referee officiating. As the higher-ranked side, Algeria might have the upper hand in a game that could ultimately decide third place in Group J.

Rankings history for Algeria and Jordan

Algeria’s peak in the FIFA Rankings came in 2014, when the national team climbed to No. 15 in the world. Conversely, they hit rock bottom in 2008, sinking to 103rd. A victory here would help them boost their current standing.

Jordan enjoyed a strong run between August and September 2004, peaking at No. 37 in the world. Their lowest point came in July 1996, when they plummeted to 152nd. “The Chivalrous Ones” are making their World Cup debut in 2026.

Both teams need to bring something different to the pitch. It isn’t just about the rankings anymore. For Algeria, taking three points is the only real option, losing or drawing against Jordan simply won’t cut it, as both squads fight to keep their knockout-stage dreams alive.

Vincic made his 2026 World Cup debut in a physical match between Morocco and Brazil. It was the kind of high-pressure game that can easily get away from a referee, but he managed to hand out just two yellow cards despite more than 30 fouls and 49 tackles.

Algeria dropped their World Cup opener against Argentina while wearing their away kit. This time around, they’ll get to face Jordan in their primary jersey, which happens to be one of the most popular and eye-catching kits in the tournament.

Uniforms for Jordan and Algeria

Jordan won’t be able to wear their primary all-white uniform for this crucial matchup, as it’s completely white and clashes with Algeria‘s home look.

Instead, Jordan will roll out their away kit, which is mostly red with white speckles across the shoulders. Algeria will sport their classic white jersey with green stripes on the shoulders, paired with white shorts and green accents.

A quiet match for Vincic and his crew?

While this projects to be a physical battle, it might actually be a perfect assignment for Vincic. Jordan is expected to play a relatively disciplined game; despite losing 3-1 to Austria in their opener, they didn’t pick up a single yellow or red card.

Assistant referees:
Tomaz Klancnik (Slovenia)
Andraz Kovacic (Slovenia)
Fourth official:
Oshane Nation (Jamaica)
Reserve assistant referee:
Caleb Wales (Trinidad and Tobago)
Video assistant referee:
Ivan Bebek (Croatia)
Assistant video assistant referee:
Jarred Gillett (England)
Support video assistant referee:
Bram Van Driessche (Belgium)

Algeria should be equally manageable for the veteran ref. “The Fennecs” didn’t pick up a single card during their 3-0 loss to Argentina. Because both sides tend to play clean, Match 44 is highly unlikely to turn into a card-fest.

Jordan showed interesting moments in their debut, though they ultimately fell 3-1 against Austria. The Asian squad was given hope when Ali Olwan scored to reduce the deficit. However, a penalty converted by Marko Arnautovic sealed the Austrian victory.

Meanwhile, Algeria had a highly demanding opener against the reigning world champions and could not avoid a 3-0 defeat against Argentina. The African combination suffered from an inspired Lionel Messi, who netted all three goals in a historic performance.

What happens if Algeria win vs Jordan?

If Algeria secure a victory against Jordan, they will earn their first 3 points of the tournament, leveling with their opponent and throwing themselves right into the fight for the group’s second ticket.

Thanks to the head-to-head tiebreaker criteria, this victory would grant the Africans a direct mathematical advantage over the Jordanian squad. If both finish tied on points at the conclusion of the group stage, Algeria will automatically place ahead of them.

What happens if Algeria and Jordan tie?

If Algeria and Jordan tie, the Maghrebi squad will salvage just 1 point, a dull result that keeps their calculators running but seriously complicates its future in the tournament. The draw on the pitch would neutralize the benefit of the direct head-to-head tiebreaker, forcing positions to be decided by overall goal difference in the final matchday if they finish level on points again.

With Argentina running away at the top with 6 points after defeating Austria today, the draw would force Algeria into a must-win situation against the Austrians in the finale, while relying on external combinations to try to advance as one of the best third-place teams.

What happens if Algeria lose vs Jordan?

A defeat against Jordan would leave Algeria at the bottom of the table with zero points after two matchdays, but it would not eliminate them from the tournament. While Jordan would secure the head-to-head tiebreaker advantage over the Fennec Foxes, Algeria’s path to the knockout rounds would simply shift to a must-win wild-card scenario.

Mathematically, Algeria could no longer surpass Jordan in the standings, but a lifeline remains open in their final group-stage match against Austria. If Algeria secures a victory over the Austrians on Matchday 3, both nations would finish level with 3 points each.

Under the tournament’s tiebreaker rules, Algeria would claim the head-to-head advantage over Austria, securing a third-place finish in the group. From there, Algeria’s fate would rely on the out-of-town scoreboard, keeping their hopes alive to advance to the Round of 32 as one of the best third-placed teams.

How to watch Jordan vs Algeria in the USA

Viewers across the U.S. can watch this highly anticipated contest live on FS1 and Telemundo through traditional TV coverage.

Fans can also stream the action on Fubo, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue, Hulu + Live TV, and Peacock Premium. Don’t miss what promises to be an exciting clash.

Can I watch Jordan vs Algeria for free?

U.S. viewers can watch this marquee matchup live on Fubo or DirecTV Stream. New customers may also qualify for a free five-day trial.

Each service delivers live coverage throughout the country, ensuring viewers can catch all the action and major plays as they happen.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Both teams are looking to bounce back after tough opening-match losses at the World Cup. Algeria was overwhelmed 3-0 by Argentina, with Lionel Messi delivering a hat trick to power the South Americans to victory.

Jordan also came away empty-handed in its tournament debut, falling 3-1 to Austria despite showing flashes of promise throughout the contest.

With a second straight defeat potentially putting their knockout-stage hopes in serious jeopardy, expect both sides to play with urgency as they battle for three vital points in the race to reach the Round of 32.

Jordan vs Algeria: Predicted Lineups

Jordan (4-3-3): Yazeed Abulaila; Yazan Al-Arab, Ihsan Haddad, Abdallah Nasib, Mo Abualnadi; Noor Al-Rawabdeh, Rajaei Ayed, Ibrahim Sadeh; Musa Al-Taamari, Ali Olwan, Mohammad Abu Zrayq.

Algeria (4-3-3): Luca Zidane; Rayan Ait-Nouri, Aissa Mandi, Ramy Bensebaini, Rafik Belghali; Ibrahim Maza, Ramiz Zerrouki, Fares Chaibi; Riyad Mahrez, Mohamed Amoura, Amine Gouiri.

What time is the Jordan vs Algeria match?

The match kicks off today, June 22, at 11:00 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 11:00 PM
Central Time: 10:00 PM
Mountain Time: 9:00 PM
Pacific Time: 8:00 PM