Spain booked their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16 after beating Austria 3-0. Mikel Oyarzabal scored twice, while Pedro Porro added another goal. As a result, La Roja moved into the next round with an impressive display.

Although Austria defended well early on, Spain controlled the game for most of the match. They kept the ball, created more chances, and finished their attacks well. They will now face either Portugal or Croatia in the Round of 16.

Watch the match highlights at: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=p_j4aMfNQyI

Spain vs Austria: La Roja Take Control Early

Spain started the match with confidence. They enjoyed most of the possession and pushed Austria deep into their own half.

Meanwhile, Austria tried to press high and slow Spain down. At first, that plan worked well. However, Spain stayed calm and continued to move the ball quickly.

As the first half went on, Spain became more dangerous. Pedri, Rodri, and Dani Olmo linked up well in midfield. At the same time, Lamine Yamal caused problems with his pace on the right wing.

Eventually, Spain found the breakthrough.

Oyarzabal Gives Spain the Lead

In the 36th minute, Marc Cucurella delivered a low cross into the penalty area.

Oyarzabal arrived at the perfect moment. He hit the ball first time and fired it past the goalkeeper to make it 1-0.

Oyarzabal opened the scoring for Spain in the 36th minute. (Photo: Reuters)

The goal rewarded Spain’s strong first-half display.

Just before halftime, Spain nearly scored again. Álex Baena curled a free kick onto the crossbar. Therefore, Austria were fortunate to go into the break only one goal behind.

Goalkeeper Schlager stood rooted to the spot as the ball went into the net after Oyarzabal’s shot. (Photo: Reuters)

Spain Dominate the Second Half

After halftime, Spain stayed in control. They passed the ball with confidence and gave Austria very little space. In contrast, Austria struggled to create clear chances. Then, in the 66th minute, Spain doubled their lead.

Pedro Porro doubled Spain’s lead in the 66th minute. (Photo: Reuters)

After another smooth attacking move, Pedro Porro met the cross with a powerful header. His finish made it 2-0 and gave Spain full control of the game.

From that point on, Austria found it difficult to respond.

Instead, Spain continued to attack and looked comfortable every time they moved forward.

Pedro Porro headed the ball into the net against Austria after an assist from Baena. (Photo: Reuters)

Oyarzabal Scores Again

Spain added a third goal just before full time.

In the 89th minute, Oyarzabal finished another well-worked attack to complete his brace.

The striker showed excellent movement throughout the match. More importantly, he took his chances when they came.

Meanwhile, Lamine Yamal had several good opportunities. Although he did not score, he played an important role in Spain’s attack. His speed and dribbling kept Austria under constant pressure.

Oyarzabal sealed a 3-0 victory for Spain in the 89th minute. (Photo: Reuters)

Spain’s Midfield Makes the Difference

Spain won the battle in midfield from start to finish.

Rodri controlled the pace of the game with simple and accurate passing. Meanwhile, Pedri found space between the lines and helped launch many attacks. Baena also had a strong match. He created chances and nearly scored from a free kick.

In addition, Spain’s full-backs made a big impact. Cucurella provided the assist for the opening goal. Likewise, Porro scored the second goal after another attacking run. Because Spain moved the ball so quickly, Austria struggled to stay organized.

Spain has affirmed its position as a contender for the 2026 World Cup title. (Photo: Reuters)

Austria Could Not Find a Way Back

Austria showed plenty of energy in the opening minutes. However, they lost control once Spain scored.

Their pressing became less effective. As a result, Spain enjoyed even more possession.

Austria also created very few chances in front of goal. Spain’s defense stayed organized and gave goalkeeper Unai Simón a quiet evening.

Overall, Austria worked hard but could not match Spain’s quality.

Austria bids farewell to the 2026 World Cup. (Photo: Reuters)

Spain Move Into the Round of 16

This 3-0 victory sends Spain safely into the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16.

Even more importantly, La Roja looked balanced in every area of the pitch. Their defense stayed solid and their midfield controlled the game. Their attack finished key chances.

Spain will now face either Portugal or Croatia in the next round.

If they continue playing like this, they will be one of the strongest teams left in the tournament.