Riyad Mahrez scored twice and Sasa Kalajdzic equalized in the last minute as Algeria and Austria played out a breathless 3-3 draw at Arrowhead Stadium in Kansas City, a result that sends both sides into the last 16 of the World Cup at the expense of Iran.
Both teams came into this Group J final knowing that a draw would almost certainly be enough to advance.
However, what followed had none of the trappings of a secondary content to settle for a point, instead producing one of the most exciting 90 minutes of the tournament.
It was Austria who moved first. In the 28th minute, David Alaba split the Algerian backline with a precise long ball that was picked out by Marko Arnautovic.
Goalkeeper Oussama Benbot hesitated off his line and Arnautovic, despite an imperfect touch, slotted home for his first World Cup goal.
Arnautovic had earlier been lucky not to be sent off after picking up a yellow card in the 11th minute, and his contribution was cut short anyway.
At half-time, Austria coach Ralf Rangnick withdrew the veteran striker along with Xaver Schlager and Romano Schmid, sending on Michael Gregoritsch, Florian Grillitsch and Paul Wanner.
Algeria, however, refused to back down. On the stroke of half-time, Rafik Belghali conjured up a stunning solo equaliser, weaving his way past several Austrian defenders before unleashing an unstoppable strike into the top corner.
It was a moment that transformed the mood at Arrowhead Stadium and sent the Desert Foxes level at the break.
The second half brought more Austrian urgency. Marcel Sabitzer regained the lead in the 55th minute, firing a fierce effort from the top of the penalty area that gave Benbot no chance.
Konrad Laimer was credited with the assist as Austria threatened to withdraw.
Algeria responded with conviction. Five minutes later, Houssem Aouar played a pass to captain Mahrez, who calmly finished to level the score at 2-2.
Algeria’s dominance in possession, controlling 65 percent of the ball and completing 706 of their 755 attempted passes, was beginning to tell.
The game went into a tense final quarter with the scoreline up and qualification secured for both teams whatever the result.
Algeria made a triple substitution in the 71st minute, with Rayan Ait-Nouri, Zineddine Belaid and Samir Chergui coming on to freshen up their legs, while Kevin Danso had earlier replaced the injured Alaba for Austria.
With three minutes of added time played, Aouar again found Mahrez in space and the Al Ahli striker swept home his second of the night to make it 3-2.
