Spain reach last 16 after thrashing Austria

Sports Desk: Spain have stormed into the last 16 after a dominant 3-0 win over Austria, with Mikel Oyarzabal scoring twice to lead the charge.

It was Spain’s third consecutive qualification for the last 16, but more importantly, their first knockout-stage victory in 16 years. The last time Spain won a knockout match was during their 2010 World Cup triumph.

The win also highlighted a remarkable statistical coincidence for Spain. Across all competitions, they are now unbeaten in 33 consecutive matches. Their total number of World Cup victories has also reached 33. Meanwhile, head coach Luis de la Fuente has now recorded 33 wins in all competitions since taking charge of Spain.

From the start of the Round of 32 clash in Los Angeles, Spain dominated possession and created constant pressure, though the breakthrough took time. The deadlock was finally broken in the 36th minute when Mikel Oyarzabal converted from a Marc Cucurella assist.

Earlier, Cucurella had a goal disallowed after heading home from a corner, as the referee ruled that he had fouled Austria goalkeeper Alexander Schlager in a crowded box.

In first-half stoppage time, Alex Baena came close with a stunning long-range free-kick that struck the post. The rebound fell to Lamine Yamal, but Schlager produced a crucial save to deny him.

Spain became even more aggressive after the break. In the 66th minute, Pedro Porro doubled the lead with a header from another Baena assist.

Oyarzabal completed his brace in the 89th minute, finishing calmly with a right-footed strike inside the box after receiving a pass from Cucurella. The Real Sociedad forward now has four goals in the tournament.

The match also saw a historic milestone for Lamine Yamal. At just 18 years and 354 days old, he became the youngest European player to reach 10 wins in a major international tournament (World Cup and EURO combined).

The previous record was held by France star Kylian Mbappé, who achieved the feat at 23 years and 355 days.