Algeria vs. Austria scenarios, explained: How an intentional loss or draw would impact Spain's opponent

The group stage of the World Cup is approaching its crescendo. The match-making possibilities remain numerous as the action intensifies, with those in Group J proving especially hard to get a handle on.

Argentina is the group's best side, surging to two wins behind Lionel Messi's five goals. Jordan brings up the standings' cellar, having fallen in each of its opening two contests. Sandwiched between the poles are Austria and Algeria, both of whom holding identical 1-0-1 records. Things remain precarious for both sides, although they both remain in control of their destiny heading into their final tilt: a curious matchup with each other.

With that, here's what you need to know about the Group J standings, including how an intentional result could see both teams punch their tickets to the knockout stages.

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Group J standings, explained

Argentina sits at the top of the Group J standings heading into the final day, having downed Algeria and Austria in back-to-back contests. Austria and Algeria sit in second and third, level on points with three. The Austrians hold the advantage due to a superior goal difference.

At present, both Austria and Algeria will make the Round of 32. A draw would maintain the status quo, ensuring that both sides continue their World Cup journeys.

Who will Algeria and Austria play in the knockout stage?

Pathway for Group J runner-up

The runner-up in Group J will take on the winner of Group H. Spain, Uruguay and Cape Verde are all in contention to claim the top spot in their table. Spain is likely to be group winners with a win or a draw against Uruguay, as its goal difference is superior to that of third-place Cape Verde.

Conversely, if Uruguay were to best Spain, it would surge to the top of the table. Cape Verde remains in the hunt and could burst to the top of the standings with a win over Saudi Arabia — if Spain and Uruguay tie and the scoreline in the Blue Sharks' potential win is crooked enough to overturn the four-goal deficit it faces in goal differential.

From there, the pathway gets a little clearer. The winner of the match between the Group H winner would take on the victor in the matchup between the runner-ups in Group K and Group L, likely to be one of Colombia or Portugal and one of England, Ghana or Croatia.

Pathway for Group J third-place finisher