Oyarzabal, Cucurella Shine as Spain Rolls Austria 3-0
Photo: REUTERS
Mikel Oyarzabal netted a brace as Spain dismantled Austria 3-0 in Los Angeles to secure a spot in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16.
This performance marks La Roja’s first knockout stage victory since their 2010 championship run in South Africa. The Spaniards now advance to Dallas for a July 6 clash against the winner of the Portugal-Croatia match.
Lamine Yamal signaled Spain's intent by testing goalkeeper Alexander Schlager in the opening minute. Although officials disallowed a Marc Cucurella goal for a foul, the European champions maintained relentless pressure.
Oyarzabal broke the deadlock in the 36th minute, steering a low Cucurella cross into the corner for his third goal of the tournament. Alex Baena nearly added a second before the break, but his free-kick struck the crossbar.
Austria’s chances remained rare as Michael Gregoritsch and Sasa Kalajdzic failed to convert crosses from Marcel Sabitzer. Spain extended their lead in the 66th minute when Pedro Porro headed in a Baena delivery.
After David Alaba cleared a Yamal strike off the line, Oyarzabal punctuated the win in the 89th minute by sliding home another Cucurella assist.
