- Spain predicted lineup: Lamine Yamal to lead the attack for La Roja in the Round of 32 clash.
- The match kicks off on Thursday 3rd July from 10:00PM EAT at the SoFi Stadium.
Spain will shift their focus to the knockout rounds of the 2026 FIFA World Cup when they face Austria in a Round of 32 encounter, with Luis de la Fuente’s men determined to continue their pursuit of a second world title.
After navigating Group H successfully, La Roja now enter the business end of the tournament where every match is a winner-takes-all affair.
Spain recovered impressively from an opening draw against Cabo Verde by registering convincing victories over Saudi Arabia and Uruguay to finish top of the group, but the margin for error has now disappeared.
READ MORE:Spain vs Austria prediction: World Cup knockout preview, team news, current form & h2h
Austria are expected to provide Spain with one of their toughest tests yet. Known for their aggressive pressing, compact defensive shape and physical presence, the Austrians will look to disrupt Spain’s possession-based style and force turnovers in dangerous areas. However, De la Fuente has built a balanced squad capable of matching intensity while maintaining control of the ball.
Unai Simón is expected to continue in goal despite a slightly shaky display against Uruguay. The Athletic Club goalkeeper has still managed to keep three consecutive clean sheets and remains Spain’s undisputed first choice between the posts.
In defence, Marcos Llorente should retain his place at right-back after producing an impressive display in the previous match, including the assist for the winning goal.
Pau Cubarsí and Aymeric Laporte are expected to continue their partnership at the heart of defence, combining composure in possession with strong aerial ability.
Marc Cucurella is likely to complete the back four, offering his usual energy down the left flank and supporting attacks whenever the opportunity arises.
Rodri will once again anchor the midfield, providing protection for the defence while dictating the tempo of Spain’s build-up play.
Alongside him, Mikel Merino is expected to keep his place after an encouraging return to the starting lineup, while Pedri will be entrusted with unlocking Austria’s defensive structure through his exceptional vision, movement and passing range.
Further forward, teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is expected to start on the right wing as he looks to add another standout performance to an already impressive tournament.
Álex Baena could retain his place on the opposite flank after scoring the decisive goal against Uruguay, especially with Nico Williams still battling fitness concerns.
Leading the attack should be Mikel Oyarzabal, who remains De la Fuente’s preferred central striker despite his inconsistent performances in front of goal.
His intelligent movement, pressing from the front and ability to link play make him an important part of Spain’s attacking structure.
Spain will enter the contest as favourites, but De la Fuente will know Austria possess enough quality to punish any lapses in concentration.
If La Roja can dominate possession, move the ball quickly through midfield and remain compact without it, they will back themselves to secure a place in the Round of 16.
Spain Predicted Lineup vs Austria
Predicted Spain XI (4-3-3): Unai Simón; Marcos Llorente, Pau Cubarsí, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri, Mikel Merino, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal, Álex Baena.
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Spain national football team 2026
Brazil national football team 2026
France national football team 2026
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