Spain ended a 16-year wait for a FIFA World Cup knockout victory with a commanding 3-0 win over Austria, booking a blockbuster Round of 16 clash against Portugal.
LOS ANGELES: Spain produced a clinical display to defeat Austria 3-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32, booking their place in the Round of 16 and recording their first World Cup knockout victory since winning the title in 2010.
The former world champions dominated proceedings from the opening whistle, controlling 65 percent possession and dictating the pace with crisp passing and relentless attacking football. Despite creating several early chances, Spain had to wait until the 36th minute for the breakthrough.
Forward Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring with a composed finish after sustained Spanish pressure, giving his side a deserved halftime advantage.
Austria looked to respond after the interval, but Spain remained firmly in control. Defender Pedro Porro doubled the lead in the 66th minute, leaving Austria with an uphill battle as Spain continued to overwhelm their opponents.
Oyarzabal completed his outstanding performance in the 89th minute, scoring his second goal of the night to seal an emphatic 3-0 victory. Austria managed only a few meaningful opportunities as Spain’s organized defense and technical superiority proved too much to overcome.
The convincing win sends Spain into the Round of 16, where they will meet neighboring rivals Portugal after the Portuguese edged Croatia 2-1 in another Round of 32 encounter.
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