Spain rolled to a dominant 3-0 victory over Austria yesterday night to advance to the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup,
Austria were forced to a defensive counter-attacking strategy from the beginning in Los Angeles, where Spain proceeded to control the match with their patience and possession-based approach.
After some initial frustration, La Roja opened the scoring in the 36th minute through in-form forward Mikel Oyarzabal. A low cross from Marc Cucurella found the Real Sociedad star who produced a composed first-time finish past Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.
The left flank provided the foundation for the second goal in the 66th minute, with Cucurella’s excellent effort allowing the left back to set up Alex Baena for a crossing opportunity. Baena’s cross found right back Pedro Porro for a header that left Schlager with no chance.
By that point there was little doubt about the result, considering Austria failed to produce a single shot on goal to challenge Spain keeper Unai Simón. Late on, Oyarzabal boosted his total to four goals this tournament from another Cucurella assist.
Spain now await the winner of Thursday’s later Round of 32 clash between Portugal and Croatia, with the Round of 16 clash set for July 6 in Arlington, Texas