Algeria-Austria clash stirs ghosts of Gijon as World Cup format stokes fears of collusion

Algerian supporters show money to photographers after West Germany and Austria played out a mutually suitable scoreline in 1982's "Disgrace of Gijon". © AP file photo

Algeria have waited more than four decades for a chance to avenge the 'Disgrace of Gijon' that saw West Germany and Austria conspire to knock them out of the 1982 World Cup. Ironically, their final group clash against Austria is one of many games where sides could settle for a mutually beneficial outcome.

When Algeria and Austria meet in their last group game in Kansas City on Saturday, it will not only be key to both countries’ hopes of progressing at the World Cup but will also revive memories of one of the tournament’s darkest moments.