The International Football Federation (Fifa) has decided not to launch an investigation into claims that the World Cup group match between Austria and Algeria was arranged. Despite suspicions that the result was pre-agreed to benefit both teams, Fifa sees no reason to open a probe.
Reports suggested that the two teams had allegedly conspired to share the points in their final group match, ensuring both advanced to the knockout stage together.
The match was highly eventful, ending in a 3-3 draw. Austria equalised in the 96th minute, just three minutes after Riyad Mahrez had put Algeria ahead.
That goal capped a five-minute move that featured 110 consecutive passes. It could have eliminated Austria and sent them home.
The already tense atmosphere nearly boiled over when Marco Arnautović was seen angrily gesturing towards the Algerian bench.
In the end, Ralf Rangnick’s team finished second in the group, while Algeria, in third place, also progressed to the next round.
Some observers believed the result was fixed, pointing out that Algeria had allowed Austria to equalise in the dying seconds. However, Fifa has categorically rejected the allegations, stating it has no concerns about any manipulation of the match result by either team.
For his part, Rangnick firmly denied any wrongdoing. However, Mahrez did little to calm the growing speculation about possible irregularities. He admitted that the final sequence seemed strange and suspicious.
Riyad Mahrez, the former Manchester City star, acknowledged: ‘It was a bit strange, to be honest. We were playing on the wings and they were dropping back, but in the last minute one of them passed, turned, and I had to react. I have to respect football. The ball came in front of the goalkeeper and I should have scored, I have to try to score. I know the situation is odd, but it’s football and I must respect it. For Austria, the main thing is that they scored and secured their ticket. Both of us advanced, and that’s what matters.’
Austria now faces a tough knockout match against European champions Spain. If they cause an upset, they would then take on Portugal or Croatia.
Algeria, on the other hand, will face Switzerland, and could meet Argentina in the quarter-finals if both teams maintain their momentum.
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