Oyarzabal’s brace sees Spain through to R16

Spain booked their place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup last 16 with an impressive 3-0 victory over Austria at the Los Angeles Stadium, ending a long wait for a knockout-stage win at the tournament. 

Mikel Oyarzabal starred with a brace, while Pedro Porro added the second goal as Luis de la Fuente’s side delivered one of the competition’s most convincing performances. Spain will now face either Portugal or Croatia in the next round on July 6.

After dominating possession for much of the first half, Spain finally broke the deadlock in the 36th minute. 

Marc Cucurella produced a pinpoint cross that found Oyarzabal, who made no mistake with his finish to give the 2010 world champions a deserved lead heading into the break. 

Spain had earlier seen a Cucurella goal ruled out, but they remained in complete control throughout the opening period.

Austria struggled to cope with Spain’s relentless passing and movement after the restart, and the pressure eventually told again in the 66th minute. 

Álex Baena delivered an inviting cross into the area, where Pedro Porro arrived to head home and double Spain’s advantage. 

The second goal effectively ended Austria’s hopes of staging a comeback as they found it difficult to create meaningful opportunities.

Spain continued to threaten, with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal producing another outstanding display despite failing to get on the scoresheet. 

The Barcelona winger repeatedly tormented Austria’s defence with his dribbling and creativity, even seeing one effort brilliantly cleared off the line by David Alaba before being substituted late in the game to a standing ovation.

Oyarzabal completed his brace in the 89th minute to cap a memorable evening for Spain. 

Once again, Cucurella was the provider, sending in another excellent cross that the Real Sociedad forward calmly converted to make it 3-0. 

The striker became the first Spanish player to score twice in a World Cup knockout match since Emilio Butragueño achieved the feat against Denmark in 1986.

The comprehensive victory underlined Spain’s credentials as genuine contenders for the World Cup title. 

Spain, meanwhile, advance to the last 16 full of confidence and momentum as they prepare for a heavyweight clash against either Portugal or Croatia.