AFCON 2025
Spain outclassed Austria 3-0 at SoFi Stadium in Los Angeles to book their place in the Round of 16 at the 2026 FIFA World Cup. The European champions controlled the match from start to finish, securing their first World Cup knockout win in 16 years since their triumphant 2010 campaign.
Spain dominated possession from the opening whistle, though they had to wait to convert their pressure into goals. Referees ruled out an early effort from Marc Cucurella after spotting a foul on the Austrian goalkeeper during a corner.
Mikel Oyarzabal broke the deadlock in the 36th minute. The Real Sociedad forward finished off a well-worked move after Cucurella teed him up. The goal rewarded Spain’s patient build-up play and gave them a deserved lead heading into the break.
Austria struggled to contain Spain’s attacking rhythm in the second half. Pedro Porro doubled the lead in the 66th minute, heading home a superb cross from Alex Baena for his first-ever international goal.
Austria pushed more attackers forward in search of a way back into the contest, but Spain’s defense held firm. Oyarzabal sealed the win late in the second half, netting his second goal of the match. The strike took his World Cup tally to two goals, cementing his status as Spain’s top scorer at the tournament so far.
Unai Simon marshaled a settled Spanish backline featuring Cucurella, Aymeric Laporte, Pau Cubarsi and Porro, while Rodri and Pedri controlled the midfield. Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo and Baena provided the attacking spark alongside Oyarzabal up front.
Spain now advances to face the winner of Portugal vs. Croatia in the next round, carrying momentum from a performance that leaves little doubt about their credentials as genuine title contenders. Austria, meanwhile, exited the tournament at the Round of 32 stage.
