Algeria v Austria – predictions and odds – 2026 World Cup (28/06/2026)

Group J of the 2026 World Cup draws to a close, a group that has so far been dominated by Leo Messi’s performances for Argentina. Both the Algerians and the Austrians have already suffered at the hands of the man striving to become the greatest of all time: a hat-trick against the Africans and a brace against the Europeans. But, with that nightmare behind them, it is now time for them to face each other to stand a chance of reaching the round of 32. Rangnick’s men hold the advantage thanks to their superior goal difference; a draw would see them through in second place. Will they settle for that result, or will they go all out for victory to avoid a tougher tie?

The good news for Petkovic and his lads is that they’ve been improving as the tournament has gone on. After suffering a clear defeat in their opener against Argentina and falling behind early against a weak Jordan side, they managed to bounce back and show they have what it takes to still make their mark at this World Cup. With Mahrez leading the line on the counter-attack, striker Gouiri as the finisher and Fares Chaibi providing that touch of unpredictability in the final third, there are real reasons to be optimistic. If they display their best link-up play, they could completely destabilise Austria’s rock-solid defence.

International tournaments come and go, yet Marko Arnautovic remains a constant presence. In their opening match, he scored a brace against Jordan, and that 3–1 victory could see them finish second in the group. One of their defining characteristics is that they are a very organised side, rarely losing their shape or leaving gaps at the back, though they often lack creativity in attack. With Schlager, Laimer and Sabitzer, they have a midfield that combines control and composure, which could help them catch their opponents off guard in Kansas this Saturday. They give the impression of being very solid; we’ll see if they can hold their nerve under the immense pressure of the occasion.

In short, we are looking at two sides which, although they have very different playing styles, appear to be very evenly matched on paper. Both managers have the resources to make changes and take more risks, but everything suggests that, knowing that four points will see both teams through safely, they will end up calling a truce. A draw is such a likely outcome that bookmakers are pricing it at just over two euros for every euro staked; this seems a good opportunity, as the probability of it happening is, on the face of it, quite high.