Argentina, Austria, and Algeria Qualify; Iran Eliminated from World Cup

On June 28, Beijing time, the 2026 World Cup in the United States, Canada, and Mexico entered its final group stage matchday.

In the last two Group J matches, Argentina defeated Jordan 3-1, while Algeria drew 3-3 with Austria.

In the previous two rounds, Argentina beat Algeria 3-0 and Austria 2-0. Austria also defeated Jordan 3-1, and Algeria beat Jordan 2-1.

Before the third round, Argentina had already secured the top spot in the group, giving them room to rotate their squad for the final group match against Jordan.

Argentina head coach Scaloni revealed before the match that Messi would not start, but the rotated La Albiceleste still dominated the game as expected.

In the 19th minute, Lo Celso scored directly from a free kick, finding the net on his World Cup debut to give Argentina the lead.

Then in the 31st minute, Jordan committed a foul in the box, and Argentina were awarded a penalty. Lautaro Martínez converted to make it 2-0.

In the 55th minute, Jordan pulled one back as Al-Taamari scored from a close-range cross.

In the 60th minute, Messi, Almada, and Mac Allister came off the bench, replacing Lautaro, Lo Celso, and Nico Paz.

In the 80th minute, the substitute Messi delivered a magnificent performance, scoring directly from a free kick just outside the box. He found the net in all three group stage matches, becoming the first player in history to score in seven consecutive World Cup games.

Argentina won 3-1.

Meanwhile, Algeria faced off against Austria. Both teams entered the match with 3 points, with Austria holding second place on goal difference, making this a decisive battle for qualification.

In the 28th minute, Arnautović scored on a breakaway after a long pass from a teammate. But just before halftime, Belkebla equalized with a powerful shot after a solo run.

In the 55th minute, Laimer provided an assist as Sabitzer scored directly, putting Austria ahead 2-1.

Austria's lead did not last long. In the 60th minute, Ouar crossed after a breakthrough, and Mahrez scored from close range to level the match again.

In stoppage time, the two teams traded goals in a dramatic finish. Mahrez scored again to make it 3-2, but Kalajdžić immediately equalized for Austria. After an intense battle, the match ended 3-3.

With the draw, both Algeria and Austria finished with 4 points. Austria advanced as group runners-up on goal difference, while Algeria qualified as one of the eight best third-placed teams. Iran, with only 3 points, was eliminated at the last moment.