Spain Dominates Austria 3-0, Oyarzabal Brace Secures Last 16 Spot

INGLEWOODVenue·Inglewood, California – Spain, the reigning European champions, delivered a commanding performance to defeat Austria 3-0 in their FIFA World Cup 2026Competition·FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 encounter. The victory, secured on Thursday, July 2, 2026, in Los Angeles, propels Spain confidently into the last 16 of the tournament.

Mikel OyarzabalPlayer·Mikel Oyarzabal was the architect of Spain's success, opening the scoring in the 36th minute. He clinically converted a low cross from Marc CucurellaPlayer·Marc Cucurella, following a fluid team move initiated by PedriPlayer·Pedri. Oyarzabal then sealed the victory in the 89th minute with his second goal, once again assisted by Cucurella, highlighting a potent connection down the left flank. Spain's lead was extended in the 66th minute when Pedro PorroPlayer·Pedro Porro headed home a cross from Alex BaenaPlayer·Alex Baena, making it 2-0.

Spain's dominance was evident throughout the match. They maintained significant control of possession, effectively stifling Austria's attacking efforts. The Austrian side failed to register a single shot on target, a testament to Spain's defensive solidity. Goalkeeper Unai SimónPlayer·Unai Simón secured his fourth consecutive clean sheet of the tournament, underscoring the team's formidable defensive record.

This victory marks a significant milestone for Spain, as it is their first World CupCompetition·World Cup knockout match win since they lifted the trophy in 2010, effectively breaking a prolonged "knockout hoodoo." Spain entered the knockout stage on an exceptional run, extending their unbeaten streak to 34 matches. Their formidable form was established in the group stage of the World Cup 2026, where they topped Group H with victories over Saudi Arabia and UruguayTeam·Uruguay, alongside a goalless draw with Cabo Verde.

Spain's coach, Luis de la FuenteCoach·Luis de la Fuente, lauded his team's performance following the match.

"The great teams step up when it's needed. We played a great match. We came close to perfection"— Luis de la Fuente.

Mikel OyarzabalPlayer·Mikel Oyarzabal also reflected on the team's achievement.

"I'm happy to have helped the team for us to go through another round. Now just rest and get ready for the next one. It was a complicated match. We knew that it was going to be difficult against a very physical team, but we had a very good day and played a good match"— Mikel Oyarzabal.

De la Fuente has enjoyed considerable success since taking the helm in December 2022, guiding Spain to the 2023 UEFA Nations League and UEFA Euro 2024Competition·UEFA Euro 2024 titles. His focus on the World CupCompetition·World Cup preparations was clear earlier in the 2025/26 season, as he stated, "In our minds, we are already playing the World CupCompetition·World Cup—that is the mentality we must have."

Oyarzabal's personal form has been stellar, with the forward accumulating 12 goals and 5 assists in 12 matches this season for the national team. He notably scored the winning goal in the Euro 2024 final and also found the net in the 2025 Nations League final.

Spain will now prepare to face the winner of the match between Portugal and CroatiaTeam·Croatia in the Round of 16. That crucial fixture is scheduled for Monday, July 6, in DallasVenue·Dallas, as Spain continues its pursuit of the World CupCompetition·World Cup title.