Spain produced another dominant performance, defeating Austria 3-0 to secure safe passage to the round of 16 at the 2026 World Cup. The European champions remain unbeaten and have yet to concede a goal in the tournament.
Oyarzabal and Porro Shine in Toronto
Mikel Oyarzabal scored his third and fourth goals of the World Cup, while Pedro Porro justified his inclusion with his first international goal. In the searing heat of Toronto, Spain's cool-headed performance was too much for Ralf Rangnick's Austria.
Spain imposed themselves after the first hydration break and thought they had taken the lead just before the half-hour mark through Marc Cucurella. However, the goal was disallowed for a soft-looking foul on Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.
Cucurella Turns Provider
Spain took the lead on 36 minutes when Cucurella turned provider for Oyarzabal. The Real Sociedad forward, who scored the winning goal in the Euro 2024 final, is building on a strong club season in which he bagged 18 goals and helped his team win the Copa del Rey. Under Luis de la Fuente, Oyarzabal has developed into one of international football's most prolific strikers.
After scoring twice in Spain's 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in the group stage, the 29-year-old added to his tally in the Canadian sunshine. Schlager was a source of frustration for Spain before the break, notably denying Lamine Yamal from close range.
Austria's Second-Half Push
Rangnick made a double change at half-time to shift momentum, then made two more substitutions on the hour, including veteran Marko Arnautovic. Fellow substitute Sasa Kalajdzic soon fired a warning, using his 6ft 7in frame to head the ball over Unai Simon's crossbar.
Simon kept a clean sheet and broke a 36-year-old record by going 518 minutes without conceding a goal at the World Cup. As Austria pushed forward, Spain exploited space in behind.
Porro Seals the Win
After patient build-up play, Alex Baena found Porro bursting into the penalty area. The Tottenham right-back headed home to put the game to bed. Porro has started both of Spain's comfortable wins in the tournament.
Oyarzabal scored again on the break, again assisted by Cucurella, making his day easier after his disallowed goal. Spain will play the winners of Friday's match between Portugal and Croatia in Dallas next Monday. For Austria, the tournament ends after a decent showing in North America.
