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Spain’s 3-0 Austria: Pau Cubarsi deserves the World Cup spotlight

Spain cruised past Austria 3-0, keeping their historic flawless defensive record alive all thanks to Pau Cubrsi. Mikel Oyarzabal stole the show with a deadly brace.
Spain v Austria: Round of 32 - FIFA World Cup 2026
Spain v Austria: Round of 32 - FIFA World Cup 2026 | Francois Nel/GettyImages

Spain have looked absolutely sensational in the World Cup, and the latest 3-0 round of 32 result against Austria at Los Angeles Stadium has the feeling they’re the team to beat. Spain didn’t just hold the majority of the ball against Austria, with 65% of possession, they made history. La Roja have gone through the group stage without conceding any goals, and after this win over Austria, that defensive record extends to the entire 2026 World Cup.

The teenage wall: Pau Cubarsi

While all the focus is on the superstars like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane, it’s time we appreciate 19-year-old Pau Cubarsi. Cubars was spectacular on the ball and on the defensive side against Austria. And the youngster at centre-back is one of the main reasons that the Spaniards have been impossible to break down so far in the 2026 World Cup.

Yamal, Olmo and Pedri on top form

Spain looked electric in the build-up through their midfield with Pedri and Rodri dictating play. Dani Olmo pulled off some brilliant footwork in the first half to keep Spain moving. Lamine Yamal continued to terrorize defenses on the wing with his changing of direction before being substituted at 84 minutes.

Oyarzabal stakes his claim for the Golden Boot

Mikel Oyarzabal was the star of the show against Austria and got his first goal in the 36th minute with a beautiful one-touch finish after a sublime cross from Marc Cucurella. Pedro Porro put home a thunderous header to make it two goals in the 66th minute. In the 89th minute, Oyarzabal tucked home another from a Cucurella pass to wrap up a commanding 3-0 win for Spain.

Who could have predicted Oyarzabal’s stunning level of play but with a brace today he’s firmly in the race for the Golden Boot.

The Spanish attackers and playmakers should be begging to be passed to Oyarzabal with this level of finishing. It’s almost as if he belongs on Barcelona's team already.

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