Belghal fires to hold Austria 1-1 equalizer in first-half

Algeria staged an impressive comeback to draw level against Austria before the break, with Rafik Belghali's late first-half strike making it 1-1 in their FIFA World Cup 2026 group-stage encounter.

Austria made the brighter start, dominating possession and applying sustained pressure through quick passing and attacks down both flanks. Their early dominance was rewarded midway through the first half when they broke the deadlock, capitalizing on a well-constructed attacking move to take the lead.

After conceding, Algeria gradually settled into the contest and began asserting themselves in midfield. The North African side increased the tempo, using the wings effectively to create several promising opportunities as they searched for an equalizer.

Their persistence paid off in the 44th minute when Rafik Belghali found space inside the penalty area and calmly slotted the ball into the net, restoring parity just before the interval.

Although Austria enjoyed a slight edge in possession during the opening half, Algeria matched their opponents in attacking intent and finished the stronger side. Their disciplined midfield display and swift counterattacks repeatedly tested the Austrian defense in the closing stages of the half.

At the break, the two sides remain locked at 1-1, with Belghali's late equalizer setting up an intriguing second half as both teams chase a crucial victory.