Sasa Kalajdzic Saves Austria From World Cup Elimination

Austria were on the brink of elimination in their 2026 World Cup group stage clash against Algeria when Riyad Mahrez put the North Africans ahead 2-1 in stoppage time. It seemed like the final whistle would mark Austria's exit from their first World Cup appearance in 28 years.

However, manager Ralf Rangnick sent on Sasa Kalajdzic as a late substitute, and the striker found the equalizer with his very first touch of the ball, securing second place in the group and a spot in the round of 16. Kalajdzic admitted he was still in shock after the match, saying he wanted to process the moment with his teammates.

Austria will now face Spain in the knockout stage.