Spain defeated Austria 3–0 in a World Cup match and secured its first knockout-stage win in 16 years.
Spain took the lead in the 36th minute when Mikel Oyarzabal scored after a pass from Marc Cucurella. In the second half Pedro Porro extended the lead to 2–0 with a header, and Oyarzabal sealed the 3–0 final score.
Coach Luis de la Fuente described the performance as a fantastic match close to perfection. He stressed that the team must continue to improve ahead of the next match.
Spain will face the winner of the match between Portugal and Croatia in the round of 16, which is scheduled for Monday in Arlington, Texas. The victory ended a period without knockout wins since the 2010 World Cup title.
