President Van der Bellen Commends Team Despite Defeat
Austria's FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign ended with a 3-0 loss to Spain in the Round of 32 on Thursday in Inglewood, California. President Alexander Van der Bellen took to social media to salute the team's effort, writing: "Our @oefb1904 national team's journey at the World Cup comes to an end in Los Angeles. European champions Spain were simply too strong. I understand that you're disappointed - but lads, you gave it your all. The whole country was on the edge of its seat. Thanks for your effort!"
Spain Dominates with Commanding Performance
Spain, a top contender for the title, extended their unbeaten run without conceding a goal in the tournament. Mikel Oyarzabal scored twice, and Pedro Porro added his first international goal, leading Luis de la Fuente's side to a comprehensive victory over Ralf Rangnick's Austria.
Spain started aggressively, with Lamine Yamal forcing an early save from Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager. Aymeric Laporte threatened from successive corners, and Marc Cucurella had a goal disallowed due to a foul on Schlager. Despite Schlager's impressive saves, Spain broke through just before halftime when Cucurella crossed for Oyarzabal to finish calmly. Alex Baena's free-kick then hit the crossbar.
Austria's Brief Threat and Spain's Second Half Control
Austria showed signs of life after the break when substitute Sasa Kalajdzic headed narrowly over the bar. However, Spain remained in control. Porro scored Spain's second goal, heading home Baena's cross. David Alaba made a goal-line clearance to deny Yamal, but Oyarzabal sealed the win with his second goal, again converting a Cucurella cross.
Spain Advances with Clean Sheet Record
The 3-0 victory sends Spain into the Round of 16 with four clean sheets, as they await the winner of Portugal and Croatia. Austria exited after reaching the knockout stage for the first time since 1954, earning praise from their president and fans despite the heavy defeat.
