Spain produced their best performance of the FIFA World Cup 2026 so far by defeating Austria 3-0 at SoFi Stadium on Friday. The convincing victory secured La Roja a place in the Round of 16 and marked their first win in a World Cup knockout match since lifting the trophy in 2010.

Mikel Oyarzabal starred with two goals, while Pedro Porro added another after halftime. Spain controlled the match from start to finish with their trademark possession, quick passing and attacking football.

Mikel Oyarzabal Opens the Scoring for Spain

Spain dominated possession throughout the first half but had to wait for the breakthrough. After the first-half hydration break, the European champions increased the pressure on Austria.

In the 36th minute, Marc Cucurella delivered a sharp pass into the penalty area. Mikel Oyarzabal found himself unmarked and fired a powerful shot into the net to give Spain a deserved lead. The goal rewarded Spain's patient attacking approach and gave them full control of the match.

Pedro Porro Scores His First International Goal

Spain continued to attack after the break. In the 66th minute, Álex Baena delivered a perfectly weighted cross into the penalty area. Pedro Porro timed his run perfectly and powered a header past goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.

The goal doubled Spain's advantage and marked the right-back's first goal for the national team. Austria struggled to respond as Spain continued to dominate possession.

Oyarzabal Completes the Victory With Second Goal

Spain sealed the result in the closing stages. Marc Cucurella provided another excellent assist in the 89th minute. Oyarzabal collected the pass before calmly finishing to score his second goal of the match and Spain's third. His outstanding performance capped one of Spain's finest displays of the tournament.

Spain Defence Maintains Perfect FIFA World Cup Record

Spain's defence once again proved nearly impossible to break down. Goalkeeper Unai Simón kept his fourth consecutive clean sheet despite not needing to make a single save.

Spain's organised backline completely shut down Austria's attack and prevented them from registering a single shot on target. As a result, Spain remain the only team yet to concede a goal in the tournament.

Austria Fail to Match Spain's Quality

Austria battled throughout the match but struggled to create meaningful opportunities. Goalkeeper Alexander Schlager kept the score respectable by making six important saves.

Meanwhile, defender David Alaba produced a superb goal-line clearance to deny 18-year-old Lamine Yamal late in the game. However, Ralf Rangnick's side could not cope with Spain's relentless attacking football and eventually suffered a deserved defeat.

Spain Extend Unbeaten Run and Strengthen Title Hopes

The victory extended Spain's unbeaten run to 35 competitive matches under head coach Luis de la Fuente. More importantly, the performance reinforced Spain's status as one of the favourites to win the FIFA World Cup 2026. After disappointing exits in the previous three editions of the tournament, La Roja have returned as serious title contenders.

Spain Await Portugal or Croatia in the Round of 16

Spain will now travel to Dallas for their Round of 16 fixture. They will face the winner of the highly anticipated clash between Portugal and Croatia. Another victory would move Spain one step closer to winning their second FIFA World Cup title and continuing their outstanding run of form.