The reigning European champions and one of the favourites for the 2026 World Cup, Spain, begin their knockout stage campaign with a match against Austria.
A significant psychological hurdle for the Spaniards remains their poor record in World Cup knockout rounds in the 21st century. Over the last five tournaments, La Roja has advanced past the first knockout stage only once—during their victorious 2010 World Cup run in South Africa. In the 2006, 2018, and 2022 World Cups, Spain consistently stumbled at the first knockout hurdle, while in 2014 they were embarrassingly eliminated in the group stage.
Austria, ranked 34th in the FIFA rankings, appears to be a suitable opponent to break this unfortunate streak. However, coach de la Fuente faces a severe personnel crisis on the attacking flanks. The final group stage match against Uruguay resulted in serious injuries to Yeremi Pino and Nico Williams. The only natural winger available is the young Lamin Yamal, while the opposite flank will have to be covered by nominal midfielder Alex Baena.
During the group stage, the coaching staff was heavily criticised for sterile ball possession—Spain regularly held over 60% possession but struggled to convert this dominance into clear chances on goal.
Under Ralf Rangnick’s leadership, Austria will rely on intense pressing and rapid counterattacks, meaning Spain’s defence, led by Aymeric Laporte, must maintain utmost concentration during defensive transitions.
The Round of 16 match between Spain and Austria will kick off at 19:00 UTC.
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