As the match kicks off in Kansas City on Saturday evening, both Austria and Algeria will be acutely aware of what they must achieve to secure a spot in the last 32.

Curiously, it could be argued that losing might serve their interests better, as the team finishing third in Group J would likely dodge a confrontation with the European champions, Spain, who are anticipated to top Group H.

Currently, Austria sits in second place alongside Algeria, with both teams holding three points, trailing behind the leaders and defending champions, Argentina.

When asked during his pre-match press conference on Friday whether Austria planned to play for a draw, Rangnick delivered a straightforward rebuttal.

"No, definitely not," he asserted.

The German coach emphasized the unpredictability of the tournament, noting that many games would unfold before Austria and Algeria take the field at Arrowhead Stadium.

"None of us, even one day ahead, know what the situation will be," he explained. "Once the match begins, we will have clarity, but it will not dictate our approach to the game."

The infamous "[a href="https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Disgrace_of_Gij%C3%B3n" target="_blank"]Disgrace of Gijon[/a]" refers to Austria's 1-0 loss to West Germany during the 1982 World Cup, a match that allowed both teams to progress at the expense of Algeria on goal difference.

Rangnick acknowledged his awareness of that historical match but firmly stated its irrelevance to the current situation.

"When that match occurred, none of the players in my squad were even born; I was just 24 years old," he recalled. "This illustrates how long ago it was and it bears no connection to our match tomorrow or its outcome."

Midfielder Konrad Laimer echoed his coach's sentiments, dismissing any distractions surrounding the game in the American Midwest.

"Ultimately, we want to concentrate on ourselves, aim for victory, and advance beyond the group stage; after that, it won’t matter who our next opponent is," said the Bayern Munich star.

Algeria's coach, Vladimir Petkovic, also sidestepped the controversy during his own press conference.

"If and what happens if, that's an expression that doesn't exist," he stated. "We must play our game and see what unfolds after the final whistle.

"But we have to put forth our best effort to pursue our ambitions and strive for victory. Absolutely."