Spain advanced to the round of 16 of the World Cup with a 3-0 win over Austria in Los Angeles.
Spain were left frustrated after Marc Cucurella’s goal was controversially fouled by the goalkeeper, but it was only temporary relief for the passionate Austrian team. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring late in the first half and there was no turning back.
Ralf Rangnick attempted the same dramatic trick that earned his team a place in the knockout stages. That said, they chose Sasa Kalajdzic, the extra-time hero against Algeria. The tall striker came close to equalizing, but this time he went over the bar.
Spain’s Pedro Foro celebrates scoring his team’s second goal against Austria.
Pedro Porro soon doubled the advantage by nodding in from close range to dash Austria’s hopes of a comeback, and Oyarzabal converted Cucurella’s center to send a message to the other World Cup heavyweights to seal a convincing win.
Spain performed somewhat poorly in the group stage, drawing with Cape Verde. However, Luis de la Fuente’s side are yet to concede a goal in this tournament and his side are currently unbeaten in 34 matches under 90 minutes in international competition.
With Lamine Yamal giving us glimpses of his incredible qualities on the other side of the pitch, it’s clear there’s a lot more to come. If Spain can continue to solidify their defense, they will have the talent to put better teams to pieces. Next is Portugal or Croatia.
Big moments in Los Angeles…
30 – Goal disallowed! Cucurella was denied for a ‘foul’ on the goalkeeper.
37 – target! Oyarzabal slotted home to give Spain a deserved lead.
61 – possibility! Kalajdzic came close to leveling but went over with his first touch.
66 – target! Foro doubled his advantage by nodding in Baena’s cross.
89 – target! Oyarzabal converted the second on Cucurella’s centre.
