Algeria hold the slight advantage in this World Cup group clash. They've shown real bite in attack lately with that 7-0 thrashing of Guatemala and a clean 1-0 win over the Netherlands. Austria sit level on three points after two games but their 3-1 win over Jordan looks less convincing than Algeria's results.
Both sides lost to Argentina already. Algeria went down 0-3 while Austria fell 0-2. The winner here will likely move closer to the knockout stage at GEHA Field at Arrowhead Stadium. Algeria's recent 4-0 friendly win over Bolivia adds to their momentum.
Austria's only previous meeting with Algeria came back in 1982 when they won 2-0. That feels like ancient history now. Current form points elsewhere. Algeria's 0-0 draw with Uruguay showed they can shut things down when needed.
Injuries will shape the day. Mohamed Amoura misses out with a hamstring issue for Algeria. Luca Zidane is recovering from a fractured jaw. Austria lose Christoph Baumgartner to a thigh problem for the whole tournament. David Alaba returns after passing a late fitness test.
Predicted lineups show Riyad Mahrez leading Algeria's attack while Marko Arnautovic starts up front for Austria. Romano Schmid scored in their win over Jordan and could cause problems again. Algeria's predicted 4-3-3 looks solid on paper despite the Amoura absence.
Both teams sit on 1-0-1 records in Group J. A draw keeps things tight for everyone else. Algeria's 0-3 loss to Argentina came in June while Austria's defeat followed days later. Fresh legs might decide it.
Mahrez remains the man to watch for Algeria. He captains the side and brings that big-game experience. Austria rely on Arnautovic's finishing and the energy from midfielders like Nicolas Seiwald.
Recommended Bets
Algeria win @2.40 — their attacking returns in recent friendlies and Austria's missing key forward suggest the edge goes to the Africans.
Under 2.5 goals @1.85 — both sides lost to Argentina without scoring and defensive setups should keep this tight.
Marko Arnautovic anytime goalscorer @3.10 — he found the net in their last World Cup outing and Algeria's backline has shown occasional gaps.
Odds tend to shorten closer to kickoff — lock in value now.
