DOHA: The FIFA World Cup 2026 group stage produced more drama on Saturday as Iran was knocked out of the tournament, while Algeria, Austria, DR Congo, Croatia, and England secured places in the Round of 32.
In the decisive Group J clash, Algeria and Austria played out a thrilling 3-3 draw, a result that was enough to send both teams into the knockout stage and eliminate Iran from the competition.
The match remained evenly contested throughout, with the score tied at 2-2 for much of the game. Algeria appeared to have sealed victory after scoring in second-half stoppage time, but Austria struck in the dying moments to level the score and book its place in the Round of 32.
Portugal Held, Colombia Advances
In another Group J fixture, Portugal, led by veteran star Cristiano Ronaldo, was held to a 0-0 draw by Colombia. Both teams had already secured qualification before the match, although Colombia created several scoring opportunities but failed to find the net.
In one of the tournament’s biggest stories, DR Congo defeated Uzbekistan 3-1 to qualify for the FIFA World Cup knockout stage for the first time in 52 years, marking a historic achievement for the African nation.
England and Croatia Progress from Group L
In Group L, Croatia secured a 2-1 victory over Ghana to advance to the knockout stage.
Meanwhile, England defeated Panama 2-0, finishing at the top of the group and entering the Round of 32 with an unbeaten record.
With the group stage set to conclude, attention now turns to the Round of 32, where the tournament’s knockout phase is expected to deliver even more high-stakes football and dramatic encounters.
