Spain dominate Austria 3-0 to advance to World Cup round of 16; Yamal: 'The World Cup starts now'

Spain delivered their most convincing performance of the 2026 World Cup on Tuesday, defeating Austria 3-0 to book their place in the round of 16. Barcelona prodigy Lamine Yamal, 18, was named player of the match and stressed that the real tournament is just beginning.

"The World Cup starts now. If you lose, you go home, and none of us wants that," said Yamal, who played 85 minutes – longer than in any previous game in the tournament. He recorded six shots (four on target), created two chances for teammates, and made five ball recoveries.

Mikel Oyarzabal scored twice for Spain, taking his tournament tally to four goals and one assist, while Pedro Porro added the other goal. After a modest group stage, the European champions started the knockout phase with an emphatic victory.

Austria head coach Ralf Rangnick was full of praise for the Spanish side, calling them the clear favorites to win the World Cup. "I don't remember a single unforced error from them. This was Spain's best game of the tournament. We faced not only the European champions but possibly the next world champions," Rangnick said, adding that Yamal is one of the greatest talents he has ever seen at this age.

Spain boss Luis de la Fuente urged caution. "Today there are many reasons to be happy – we won, and the team's performance was excellent. But this team has not yet reached its peak. We will continue to improve," the coach emphasized.

Spain will face Portugal in the round of 16.