Spain delivered a commanding performance Thursday, defeating Austria 3-0 in the World Cup round of 32 at SoFi Stadium in Inglewood, California. Mikel Oyarzabal scored two goals, and Pedro Porro added another as La Roja secured its first knockout-stage victory since winning the tournament in 2010.
First-Half Breakthrough
After a cautious opening, Spain broke through in the 36th minute. Oyarzabal, unmarked in the penalty area, calmly converted a pass from Marc Cucurella. The goal came shortly after Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager made a diving fingertip save on Oyarzabal's low shot. Spain maintained pressure, finishing the half with a 1-0 lead.
Second-Half Dominance
Spain continued its offensive creativity after halftime. In the 60th minute, Álex Baena broke down the left side and lifted a pass to an unmarked Porro, who scored with an emphatic header for his first international goal. Oyarzabal sealed the victory in the 89th minute, converting another sharp pass from Cucurella. Spain outshot Austria 10-0 on goal, with Lamine Yamal recording four shots on target.
Defensive Excellence
Spain has yet to concede a goal at this World Cup. Goalkeeper Unai Simón kept his fourth consecutive clean sheet, extending his shutout streak to 519 minutes—a World Cup record, surpassing Italy's Walter Zenga (1990). Austria failed to register a shot on target. Coach Luis De La Fuente praised his team: "The great teams step up when it’s needed. We played a great match. We came close to perfection, but we must keep improving."
Austria's Exit
Austria reached the knockout rounds for the first time since 1998 but could not overcome Spain's dominance. Goalkeeper Schlager made six saves in a strong effort. Coach Ralf Rangnick said, "I cannot remember any unforced error they made. I think they showed us their best performance. I would dare to say we did not only meet the European champion, but possibly the next world champion." Marko Arnautović came on as a second-half substitute; Rangnick later confirmed the 37-year-old striker had played his final international match.
Looking Ahead
Spain advances to face Portugal, a 2-1 winner over Croatia, in Dallas on Monday in the round of 16. La Roja is unbeaten in 35 straight competitive matches since March 2023, a run that includes the 2023 Nations League and 2024 European Championship titles. Oyarzabal, who has four goals this tournament, said, "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."
