Spain produced a stunning performance to beat Austria 5-0 in the World Cup last 32, advancing to the round of 16 with a dominant display at the Estadio de la Cartuja in Seville. The victory was never in doubt as Spain controlled the match from start to finish, with goals from Álvaro Morata, Dani Olmo, Ferran Torres, and Lamine Yamal.
First-half dominance
Spain took the lead in the 12th minute when Morata headed home a precise cross from Jordi Alba. The goal set the tone for the first half, as Spain's relentless pressure forced Austria into defensive errors. Olmo doubled the lead in the 28th minute with a curling shot from outside the box that beat Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.
By halftime, Spain had 68% possession and had created several more chances. Austria struggled to cope with the pace and movement of Spain's attackers, particularly the teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who caused constant problems down the right flank.
Second-half onslaught
Spain continued their dominance after the break, with Torres scoring the third goal in the 52nd minute after a slick passing move involving Pedri and Gavi. Yamal then got on the scoresheet in the 67th minute, slotting home after a defensive mix-up in the Austrian box.
Substitute Mikel Oyarzabal completed the rout in the 81st minute, converting a cross from Yamal to make it 5-0. Austria had no answer to Spain's superiority and managed only one shot on target throughout the match.
Key statistics and impact
According to FIFA statistics, Spain had 74% possession, completed 89% of their passes, and registered 18 shots, with 9 on target. Austria, in contrast, had just 3 shots overall. The win sets up a round of 16 clash against either Switzerland or Cameroon.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente praised his team's performance, saying: "We executed our game plan perfectly. The players showed incredible intensity and quality. This is a statement of our intent in this tournament."
