Oyarzabal double sends Spain into last 16
Spain advanced to the World Cup round of 16 with a commanding 3–0 victory over Austria at Los Angeles Stadium.
La Roja controlled the match from the opening stages and initially thought they had taken the lead when Marc Cucurella scored from close range. However, the goal was disallowed following a foul on goalkeeper Alexander Schlager.
Spain’s pressure was rewarded in the 36th minute. Cucurella delivered a precise cross into the penalty area, allowing Mikel Oyarzabal to guide his finish into the bottom corner.
Schlager produced several important saves to keep Austria within one goal before half-time, but Spain continued to dominate after the interval.
Pedro Porro doubled the advantage in the 66th minute, heading into the net after another flowing Spanish attack. Austria’s best opportunity fell to Saša Kalajdžić, whose header landed on top of the goal.
Oyarzabal completed the victory in the 89th minute, capitalising on a defensive mistake to score his second goal of the match.
Spain maintained their perfect defensive record at the tournament and progressed to face the winner of Portugal against Croatia in the round of 16.
Scorers:
Spain: Oyarzabal 36’, 89’; Porro 66’
Player of the Match: Mikel Oyarzabal