Iran Denied in Final Seconds of Austria’s Draw with Algeria
Iran appeared to be on the verge of advancing to the last 32 after Riyad Mahrez scored in the 93rd minute to put Algeria 3-2 up against Austria in Kansas City. However, in the 96th minute, Sasa Kalajdzic turned home an equalizer for Austria, saving their World Cup and crushing Iran’s hopes.
Iran exits the tournament undefeated after three draws in Group G. The only third-place team to advance on three points is Senegal, whose 5-0 win over Iraq in their final group game provided a decisive goal-difference boost.
South Korea Out Despite Victory in Opening Match
South Korea, who won their opening game against Czechia, are also eliminated. Yonhap News Agency called their exit “dismal,” adding: “The national team suffered the humiliation of a 2026 World Cup group-stage exit after three days of agonising hope.”
Their campaign was overshadowed by a row between the squad and local media, and a drone buzzed a crucial training session before the defeat to Mexico.
Scotland and Uruguay Also Miss Out
Scotland’s troubled campaign led to Steve Clarke resigning as head coach, while Uruguay’s exit was confirmed after their defeat to Spain on Friday.
