Why Austria may prefer to lose their final World Cup group game

Austria may prefer to lose their final World Cup group game in a potentially controversial finish to Group J. The strange situation is caused by the 48-team World Cup schedule and pathways into the knockout phase.

Argentina are guaranteed top spot in Group J. Austria are currently second, level on points with third-placed Algeria but ahead due to a better goal difference. Jordan are fourth and already eliminated.

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Second place in Group J will go into the last-32 and face the winner of Group H - that currently looks…