Bibhash Lodh, BS News Agency: La Rosaleda secured their place in the last 16 by defeating Austria 3-0 in the round of 32. Spain dominated possession and attack from start to finish in the match held at the Sophie Stadium in Los Angeles. Both teams created some chances in the first half of the match, but Spain gradually took control of the game. In the 36th minute, Mikel Oyarzabal headed home a goal from a perfect cross from Marc Cucurella. The Spanish went into the break with a 1-0 lead. Spain became more aggressive after the break. Pedro Porro doubled the lead with a header from a great team attack. Then, towards the end of the match, Oyarzabal finished off a fantastic attack started by goalkeeper Unai Simeone. He scored his second and his team's third goal in the 89th minute to put Austria's last hope behind them. Spain were clearly ahead in possession, passing and attacking football throughout the match. They kept the Austrians under pressure, keeping the ball in their hands for almost 77 percent of the second half.
Lamine Yamal continued to terrorise the opposition defence on the right wing, although he failed to find the net. Alex Baena also created a few good chances. On the other hand, Ralf Rangnick's Austria tried to counter-attack at times, but Marko Arnautovic and Sasha Kalajic were unable to break down Spain's strong defence. Spain's defence was organised and confident throughout the match, as they maintained their clean sheet streak in the tournament. The victory secured Spain a place in the last 16 of the World Cup.
Their opponents in the next round will be the winner of the match between Portugal and Croatia. Excellent form, attacking edge, and solid defense - all of this has solidified Spain's position as one of the contenders for the title in this year's World Cup.
