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World Cup: Spain cruise past Austria to book last-16 clash with Portugal or Croatia

Champions of Europe Spain underlined their World Cup credentials with a commanding 3-0 victory over Austria in Los Angeles on Thursday, setting up a last-16 meeting with either Portugal or Croatia.
G.BOXALL
Published on 07/02/2026 at 21:20
2-minute read
Champions of Europe Spain underlined their World Cup credentials with a commanding 3-0 victory over Austria in Los Angeles on Thursday, setting up a last-16 meeting with either Portugal or Croatia.

Spain produced one of the most complete performances of the FIFA World Cup so far as Luis de la Fuente's side comfortably dispatched Austria 3-0 to reach the knockout stages without ever looking seriously troubled.

After France's emphatic victory over Sweden earlier in the day, La Roja responded in equally convincing fashion, dominating possession and limiting Austria to just four attempts throughout the contest while preserving their remarkable defensive record. Spain remain yet to concede a goal at this summer's tournament.

Despite Austria's energetic start under Ralf Rangnick, Spain quickly settled into their passing rhythm. Barcelona sensation Lamine Yamal, returning to full fitness after injury concerns during the group stage, repeatedly tormented the Austrian defence and was at the heart of the game's best attacking moves.

The breakthrough eventually arrived in the 36th minute. Pedri drove through midfield before releasing Marc Cucurella down the left, and the full-back's low cross was expertly diverted home by Mikel Oyarzabal for his third goal of the tournament.

Austria briefly threatened after the interval when substitute Sasa Kalajdzic headed narrowly over from Marcel Sabitzer's inviting delivery, but it proved little more than a momentary scare.

Spain doubled their advantage midway through the second half with another flowing team move. Following a sustained spell of possession, Cucurella again provided the decisive contribution, delivering a dangerous cross that Pedro Porro powered home with a diving header.

Oyarzabal brace hands Spain win

Oyarzabal added further gloss to the scoreline a minute from time, arriving unmarked at the back post to convert Cucurella's third decisive involvement of the night after another incisive Spanish attack.

Paris Saint-Germain midfielder Fabián Ruiz came off the bench late on as Spain comfortably saw out the closing stages, while Yamal received a standing ovation after another electrifying display before being replaced by Gavi.

Spain will now face either Croatia or Portugal for a place in the World Cup quarter-finals, while Austria's first appearance in the knockout rounds since 1954 comes to an end after being comprehensively outclassed by one of the tournament favourites.

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