Algeria and Austria are set to play their Group match at the 2026 World Cup.
Both federations announced they have no plan to deliberately lose or slow a game to steer clear of Spain later. The comments follow on media brought up the 1982 “shame of Gijón,” when a result was allegedly arranged to protect another team.
Algeria’s coach emphasized the squad aims to triumph on its own merit.
Austria’s captain said the team will will concentrate on its own performance, regardless of outside factors.
Officials noted the match will be decided on the pitch.