The Wound of 1982
The story goes back to the 1982 World Cup held in Spain, where Austria and West Germany played out a mutually beneficial 1-0 victory for West Germany, so that both the European teams qualified for the next stage, thus eliminating Algeria. After West Germany scored an early goal, Austria just passed the ball around to ensure a German victory, thus throwing the Desert Foxes out of the World Cup.
FIFA Changed Rules
That match forced FIFA to change rules, and thereafter, all final Group stage games were held simultaneously. However, due to complexities with 48 teams playing, that rule has been side-stepped this time.
In the backdrop of 1982, there lies a 2nd Place Conundrum
But the old wounds have reopened as Algeria face Austria in Group J to decide the Group standings with Argentina already heading the table and Jordan eliminated. Both Algeria and Austria, with a win and a loss, are on 3 points each, with Austria in second position, ahead of Algeria in third, on goal difference.
A Second Place Will Lead To A Clash With Spain If Either of the teams wins
A win for either of the teams will confirm their status as the runner-up of Group J, but they will face the mighty Spaniards in the Round of 32, which has complicated the matter. A loss may not result in further progress, with only the best eight 3rd placed teams to get the ticket for the next stage. A draw might help both teams sail through, but then, Austria will have to face Spain next.
But the Algerians want a win in the Revenge of 1982
The Algerian fans, however, are demanding revenge for what happened 44 years ago, with a win over Austria for good. Not scared of Spain, they say and have put this second-place conundrum to the bin.
A Tense Contest in the Offing
It is going to be a tense contest with lots at stake and a 44-year-old incident looming large. Can Riyad Mahrez take his team forward in what will be his Swan Song?
The match starts at 7.30 am IST, on Sunday, June 28, at the Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas.
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