Spain secured their place in the last 16 of the 2026 World Cup by overwhelming Austria 3-0 in Los Angeles. Mikel Oyarzabal scored twice while Pedro Porro added a third in a thoroughly dominant Round of 32 display.
The European champions controlled the match from start to finish, moving the ball with precision and dismantling Austria's defensive setup with little resistance. They've now set themselves up for an enticing knockout encounter against Portugal or Croatia.
The match took place at SoFi Stadium before a full house that included Spanish celebrities Penélope Cruz, Javier Bardem, and singer Rosalía. Spain's relentless performance continued their strong run through the tournament.
From the first whistle, Spain dictated play and steadily built pressure on Austria's goal. The breakthrough finally came in the 36th minute, though not without drama.
Marc Cucurella thought he'd opened the scoring from a Lamine Yamal corner, but the goal was disallowed after Pau Cubarsí obstructed Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager. Moments later, Schlager made a brilliant save to keep out Oyarzabal's attempt.
However, Schlager couldn't prevent the inevitable. Pedri sent Cucurella racing down the left flank, and the Chelsea defender's precise cross allowed Oyarzabal to slot home calmly and give Spain the lead they deserved.
Manager Luis de la Fuente's team maintained their stranglehold on the contest after half-time. Young winger Yamal consistently harassed Austria's defence on the right side throughout the second period.
Spain nearly extended their advantage when Alex Baena's free-kick struck the crossbar and Yamal's rebound was superbly saved by Schlager. The hosts didn't wait long for more success, though.
Porro found the net to make it 2-0 before Oyarzabal sealed the victory with his second goal, confirming Spain's passage into the knockout rounds with a convincing triumph.
