Fifa has decided not to open an investigation into claims that the World Cup match between Austria and Algeria was arranged, despite suspicions that the result was manipulated to serve both teams’ interests.
Some observers suggested the two sides agreed to share the points in their final group game to ensure both advanced to the round of 16 together.
The highly charged encounter ended 3-3 after Austria equalised in the 96th minute, just three minutes after Riyad Mahrez had put Algeria ahead.
That goal came after a five-minute move involving 110 consecutive passes, which could have eliminated Austria.
The already tense atmosphere nearly boiled over when Marco Arnautović was seen angrily confronting the Algerian bench, raising his hands in frustration.
In the end, Ralf Rangnick’s team finished second in the group, while Algeria – though third – also progressed to the next round.
Some commentators believed the result was fixed, claiming Algeria allowed Austria to equalise in the dying seconds.
Fifa categorically denied these allegations and expressed no concern that either team had manipulated the outcome.
Rangnick himself dismissed the idea, although Mahrez did little to calm the growing speculation when he admitted the final scenario looked unusual and suspicious.
Riyad Mahrez, the former Manchester City star, acknowledged: “It was a bit strange, to be honest. We were playing wide and they were dropping back, but in the last minute one of them made a pass, turned, and I had to react. I have to respect the game. The ball came in front of the keeper and I should have scored – I must try to score. I know it looks odd, but that’s football and I have to respect it. For Austria, the main thing is they scored and sealed their spot. We both went through, and that’s what counts.”
Austria now face a tough knockout match against European champions Spain. Should they win, they would meet either Portugal or Croatia.
Algeria, meanwhile, take on Switzerland, and could face Argentina in the quarter-finals if both sides maintain their momentum.
