Spain produced a commanding display to defeat Austria 3-0 and secure their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-finals in Los Angeles.
A brace from Mikel Oyarzabal and Pedro Porro’s first international goal ensured Luis de la Fuente’s side advanced comfortably, ending Spain’s long wait for a knockout-stage victory at the FIFA World Cup since lifting the trophy in 2010.
La Roja made an aggressive start, with Lamine Yamal testing Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager inside the opening minute.
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Spain thought they had taken the lead from a corner when Marc Cucurella found the net, but the goal was ruled out after the referee penalised a foul on Schlager.
The breakthrough finally arrived in the 36th minute.
Cucurella delivered a precise low cross from the left, allowing Oyarzabal to guide a first-time finish into the bottom corner for his third goal of the tournament.
Spain continued to dominate before halftime. Alex Baena struck the crossbar from a free-kick, while Yamal forced another excellent save from Schlager as Austria struggled to cope with the relentless pressure.
Austria rarely threatened going forward.
Michael Gregoritsch failed to connect with an inviting Marcel Sabitzer cross before substitute Sasa Kalajdzic headed over from another dangerous delivery after coming off the bench.
Spain punished Austria’s missed opportunities by doubling their advantage in the second half.
Baena whipped in a pinpoint cross from the left, and Pedro Porro timed his run perfectly to head home his first goal for Spain.
David Alaba later produced a superb goal-line clearance to deny Yamal, but Spain eventually grabbed the third goal their dominance deserved.
Once again, Cucurella was the provider, delivering another dangerous ball into the box for Oyarzabal to slide home his second goal of the evening and seal an emphatic victory.
Spain will now face Portugal in a highly anticipated FIFA World Cup 2026 quarter-final in Dallas on July 6.