In 2014, Algeria reached the round of 16 of the World Cup, advancing from the group stage for the first time in the nation’s history after a 1-1 draw with Russia. But the result came with great controversy, linked to Algeria’s tying goal and, above all, a laser pointer.
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Russia and Algeria entered the third and final group stage match on similar points, making the match a must-win for Russia, while Algeria could settle for a draw to advance. Russia scored very early in the match, and Aleksandr Kokorin found the back of the net in the sixth minute.
Russia held that lead for a while, but in the 60th minute, Algeria’s Islam Slimani found the equalizer, possibly with the help of a laser. As Algeria prepared to take a dangerous free kick outside the area, a green light danced on the face of Russian goalkeeper Igor Akinfeev.
It’s unclear whether the laser was enough to distract Akinfeev, who didn’t seem entirely fazed by the light. But moments later, Slimani’s head was able to connect with the ball just before Akinfeev’s hands, scoring the tying goal.
That goal, and the resulting draw, ended up being enough for Algeria, which advanced from Group H with four points. The Algerians lost to Germany in extra time in the round of 16.
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The laser was later attributed to fans of the Algerian team, leading FIFA to fine Algeria for the incident. FIFA cited that Algerian fans had used flares and smoke bombs, as well as the laser pointer, all illegal items for members of the crowd. Algeria was fined 50,000 Swiss francs, or about $56,400 at the time, for the conduct of its fans, and its soccer association received an official reprimand.
Now, Algeria will return to the World Cup for the first time since 2014, after failing to qualify for the last two tournaments. Advancing out of Group J may be difficult for the Algerians, who will play defending champions Argentina, as well as Austria and debutants Jordan. Hopefully, the fans in the crowd won’t have any more tricks up their sleeves.