World Cup Group Stage Climax: Austria Scrapes Through, Messi Scores on Milestone

Austria narrowly avoided an early World Cup exit, securing a place in the knockout stage with a thrilling 3-3 draw against Algeria. Sasa Kalajdzic's goal in the sixth minute of stoppage time salvaged the draw after Riyad Mahrez had briefly put Algeria ahead. Austria had twice led through Marko Arnautovic and Marcel Sabitzer, but Algeria fought back twice via Rafik Belghali and Mahrez.

Austria now faces a tough test against title contenders Spain in the Round of 16. Algeria, despite finishing third in their group behind Argentina and Austria, will play Switzerland. The match in Kansas City was a dramatic affair, with both teams battling fiercely for qualification.

In another match, Lionel Messi celebrated his 100th international cap with a goal as Argentina, the defending champions, defeated Jordan 3-1. This victory marked Argentina's 50th win in World Cup history, placing them third behind Brazil and Germany. Messi, coming off the bench in the 60th minute, extended his World Cup goal record to 19 and became the first player to score in seven consecutive World Cup matches.

Croatia, the 2018 runners-up and 2022 third-place finishers, also secured their passage to the next round by beating Ghana 2-1. Goals from Petar Sucic and Nikola Vlasic, both assisted by Luka Modric, sealed the win. Croatia will now face Portugal, while Ghana is set to play Colombia.