Hackett clears Austria as Spain clash looms

Hackett rubbishes Algeria–Austria match-fixing claims

Former referee Keith Hackett has dismissed speculation that Austria's 3–3 draw with Algeria on Sunday was fixed. "The reality, if we put our common sense hat on, you've got 22 players and, the vulnerable part of it all, is the referee," Hackett said (4). The result sent Austria into the knockout stages.

Austria 3–3 Algeria, round of 32 sealed

Sasa Kalajdzic scored as your team fought back to draw 3–3 with Algeria in the group stage on Sunday (1) (4). The point secured a spot in the knockout rounds, but the reward is brutal: Spain await in the round of 32.

Spain on Thursday, and Pedri is flying

Austria face Spain on Thursday night in a must-win clash (3) (5). Pedri is in top form ahead of the match, turning heads with his training displays (2). Lamine Yamal, Marc Cucurella, Alex Baena, and Rodri are all in the Spanish setup (5). This is the toughest possible draw.

Algerian fans cheered Austria's goal

Here is the strangest detail from Sunday: Algerian supporters celebrated when Austria scored (6). The reason was simple, Austria's goal meant Algeria avoided Spain in the next round. They knew exactly what Austria walked into.

Fan reactions

Austria's 3–3 draw with Algeria in Kansas City drew praise from a neutral American fan who attended with his two sons. He called it an incredible experience, noting the friendly atmosphere between both sets of supporters. Read the full post here.