- By Samannay Sen
- Thu, 02 Jul 2026 11:30 PM (IST)
- Source:JND
- All eyes will once again be on teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
- Spain have steadily grown into the FIFA World Cup 2026.
- pain are expected to dominate possession through Rodri and Pedri.
The FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 continues with another blockbuster European showdown as Spain take on Austria at the Los Angeles Stadium tonight.
The reigning European champions have gathered momentum at exactly the right time after topping Group H, while Austria have shown incredible resilience to book their place in the knockout rounds. Both sides will be aiming to keep their World Cup dream alive as they lock horns against each other.
However, all eyes will once again be on teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who has impressed with his skills over the past few years.
Spain vs Austria Preview
Spain have steadily grown into the FIFA World Cup 2026. After being held to a frustrating goalless draw by Cabo Verde in their opening fixture, Luis de la Fuente's side responded undoubtedly by thrashing Saudi Arabia 4-0 before edging past Uruguay 1-0 to finish at the top of Group H.
Much of Spain's attacking success has revolved around Lamine Yamal. The Barcelona youngster produced a goal and an assist against Saudi Arabia before once again tormenting defenders with his pace and creativity against Uruguay.
Austria, meanwhile, have taken a dramatic route into the knockout stages. A convincing victory over Jordan was followed by defeat against Lionel Messi's Argentina, leaving Ralf Rangnick's side needing a result in their final group game. A dramatic late equaliser from Sasa Kalajdzic earned Austria a thrilling 3-3 draw against Algeria and secured their place in the Round of 32.
Austria captain David Alaba knows exactly how dangerous Spain can be. "We obviously know what kind of team we're up against. Spain have a huge amount of quality. Individuals who can decide on games. We're going to throw everything at winning. We know anything is possible in football," he explained.
The winners of tonight's encounter will face either Portugal or Croatia in the Round of 16.
With stats, form and probable line-ups in mind, we have prepared a combined starting XI for this fascinating European clash.
Will Lamine Yamal Play Tonight?
Lamine Yamal is expected to start once again after becoming Spain's biggest attacking threat during the group stage. Coming into the tournament with injury woes, the manager has given a green signal for Yamal to play full 90 or even 120 minutes.
Spain boss Luis de la Fuente expects an intense battle. "Austria is a very aggressive, very determined team, with very high pressure. It's going to be a game with a lot of one-on-one battles. We'll need great precision and our very best football," the tactician stated.
When And Where To Watch Spain vs Austria Tonight?
Match: Spain vs Austria
Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026, Round of 32
Venue: Los Angeles Stadium, United States
Date: July 3 (IST)
Kick-off Time: 12:30 AM IST
Fans can watch the match through the official FIFA World Cup 2026 broadcasters in their respective regions.
Win Probability
Spain enter as clear favourites after an impressive group-stage campaign, but Austria's high-intensity pressing and fighting spirit make them dangerous opponents.
Spain: 69%
Draw (90 Minutes): 18%
Austria: 13%
Spain vs Austria Prediction
Spain are expected to dominate possession through Rodri and Pedri, while Austria will rely on quick transitions and the experience of David Alaba and Marcel Sabitzer to create opportunities.
Spain vs Austria Predicted Score: Spain 2-0 Austria
Spain vs Austria Combined Predicted XI
Formation: 4-2-3-1
Goalkeeper: Unai Simón (Spain)
Defenders: Marcos Llorente (Spain), Pau Cubarsí (Spain), David Alaba (Austria), Marc Cucurella (Spain)
Midfielders: Rodri (Spain), Pedri (Spain)
Attacking Midfielders: Lamine Yamal (Spain), Marcel Sabitzer (Austria), Dani Olmo (Spain)
Striker: Sasa Kalajdzic (Austria)
Reason Behind The Choices In Combined XI
Unai Simón (Spain)
Spain's first-choice goalkeeper gets the nod for his calm distribution, sharp reflexes and vast experience in major tournaments.
Marcos Llorente (Spain)
His pace, versatility and tireless work rate make him the ideal option on the right flank.
Pau Cubarsí (Spain)
The teenage defender continues to impress with his composure, positioning and confidence while playing out from the back.
David Alaba (Austria)
Austria's captain is an automatic selection thanks to his leadership, versatility and ability to marshal the defence on the biggest stage.
Marc Cucurella (Spain)
Cucurella provides defensive stability while constantly supporting Spain's attacks down the left.
Rodri (Spain)
The midfield general dictates the tempo of the game and remains one of the best holding midfielders in world football.
Pedri (Spain)
Pedri's vision, close control and creativity make him the perfect partner alongside Rodri.
Lamine Yamal (Spain)
The Barcelona sensation has been Spain's biggest attacking threat, producing moments of magic with his pace and dribbling.
Marcel Sabitzer (Austria)
Sabitzer earns his place after another influential tournament, bringing creativity, energy and a constant goal threat from midfield.
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Dani Olmo (Spain)
Olmo offers intelligence between the lines, excellent movement and the ability to unlock compact defences.
Sasa Kalajdzic (Austria)
Austria's eminent striker gets the nod after his dramatic equaliser against Algeria. His aerial dominance and physical presence provide a completely different dimension in attack.