This is only the second ever meeting between these nations, with the previous encounter also occurring in a World Cup group stage. That match took place 44 years ago in 1982, where Austria emerged as 2-0 victors. Notably, that 1982 fixture remains the last time Austria recorded a clean sheet at a World Cup finals.

• Algeria have played 31 World Cup matches without ever recording a goalless draw, the longest such run in the tournament's history.
• Austria are looking to reach the knockout stages for the first time in 72 years.
• Algeria have failed to beat European opposition in eight of their last nine attempts at the World Cup (D3 L5).
• Riyad Mahrez recently became Algeria’s oldest ever World Cup starter at 35 years and 121 days.
• Austria have gone 11 consecutive World Cup matches without keeping a clean sheet.

Riyad Mahrez remains the focal point for Algeria, having orchestrated a performance against Jordan where the team recorded 72% possession and 641 passes. However, Petkovic is expected to be without Mohammed Amoura, who is listed as doubtful and was excluded from the projected starting XI. Austria boast a wealth of set-piece options including Marcel Sabitzer and David Alaba, and they report no fresh injury concerns ahead of this decider.