Spain secured their first World Cup knockout stage victory since 2010 with a 3-0 win over Austria in Los Angeles, setting up a highly anticipated round of 16 match against Portugal on Monday. The result was largely shaped by Mikel Oyarzabal, who scored twice and assisted another, continuing his impressive form at the tournament.

Oyarzabal opened the scoring by converting a cross from Marc Cucurella in the first half. In the second half, Pedro Porro extended Spain’s lead before Oyarzabal sealed the win with his fourth goal of the World Cup, again linking up with Cucurella. The Real Sociedad forward’s performance marked a milestone, as he became the first Spanish player since 1986 to net multiple goals in a World Cup knockout match.

Austria captain David Alaba singled out Oyarzabal as the decisive factor in their defeat. He highlighted the forward’s football intelligence and positioning as key attributes, saying that while Oyarzabal may lack pace or physical strength, his timing and movement make him difficult to contain.

Spain’s head coach, Luis de la Fuente, praised Oyarzabal not only for his technical ability but also for his composure and humility. “He’s an extraordinary footballer but a normal person. That’s his strength. You have to know how to stay grounded — and he does. He’s calm and composed,” de la Fuente said.

Meanwhile, young star Lamine Yamal, who has battled a hamstring injury during the tournament, expressed optimism about his recovery and readiness for the upcoming match against Portugal. The 18-year-old Barcelona player said he was getting closer to his best form and welcomed the challenge of facing Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo, who is 41 and possibly playing in his final World Cup.

“It’s an honour for me to play such a big match against Cristiano Ronaldo,” Yamal commented. “We’re going to show the quality we have. We know we’re not afraid of any team.” Yamal also reaffirmed his commitment to advancing further, aiming to achieve his dream of winning the World Cup with Spain.

De la Fuente emphasized the increasing challenge the team faces as the tournament progresses, stating that the players are motivated to continually improve. “In the last 16, the opponents are now even more demanding. Our mentality is always to improve. That is the greatness of these players — they always want more and more,” he said.

Oyarzabal echoed this sentiment, underscoring Spain’s determination to continue their run. “You can go home if you want but that’s not what any of us want, no Spaniard wants that. We’re going to give it our all,” he stated.

Spain’s victory marks a significant step forward after a prolonged absence from knockout round success and has generated optimism as they prepare to face a seasoned Portuguese squad led by Ronaldo.