Spain finally ended their long wait for a victory in the knockout rounds of the men’s World Cup, producing a confident and controlled display to defeat Austria 3 to 0 in Los Angeles and move into the last 16.
The European champions had not won a World Cup elimination match since lifting the trophy in 2010, with disappointing exits in 2014, 2018 and 2022 leaving questions over their ability to carry tournament promise into the decisive stages. This time, however, there was no late drama or penalty heartbreak.
Spain dominated possession from the early stages, although Austria initially frustrated them with a disciplined and cautious setup. The breakthrough arrived in the 36th minute, when Marc Cucurella drove a low delivery into the area and Mikel Oyarzabal finished cleanly from around 12 yards.
Before that, Spain believed they had gone ahead through Cucurella after a cleared corner fell kindly to him, but the goal was ruled out following a foul call against Pau Cubarsi on goalkeeper Alexander Schlager. Austria’s keeper then kept his side in the contest with several strong saves, including a low stop from Oyarzabal and a superb double intervention to deny Alex Baena and Lamine Yamal.
Austria, appearing in a World Cup knockout match for the first time since 1954, offered little going forward. Their clearest chance came after the interval when substitute Sasa Kalajdzic headed over shortly after coming on.
Spain increased their advantage in the 66th minute through Pedro Porro, who timed his run perfectly before heading in Baena’s cross following a patient attacking move. The result was wrapped up in the final minute when Cucurella released Oyarzabal with a clever pass, allowing the forward to slide in his second goal of the night and his fourth of the tournament.
Lamine Yamal was also a constant danger, causing problems for Konrad Laimer throughout the match. The 18 year old almost got on the scoresheet late on, only for David Alaba to clear his effort off the line.
Spain’s attacking numbers were also encouraging. After managing only 16 shots on target across their three group matches, they recorded 10 against Austria, showing signs that their attack is gathering momentum. They also joined Mexico as the only teams yet to concede in their first four matches at the 2026 World Cup.
Austria’s journey ends, while Spain now prepare to meet either Portugal or Croatia in the last 16.
