Spain enters the World Cup last-32 knockout round against Austria on July 2 after winning Group H with two victories and a draw, amassing seven points from nine available [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. The team holds an unbeaten run of 34 matches and goalkeeper Unai Simon has not conceded a goal for 429 minutes in this tournament [1, 2].

Spain’s campaign began with a 0-0 draw against Cape Verde, where they dominated possession at 74% and took 27 shots, but only seven were on target, revealing struggles to convert chances into goals [1, 2]. The team’s attempt to break down the opposition through crosses was largely ineffective, completing only eight from 39 attempts [1, 2]. This difficulty echoes Spain’s 2022 World Cup exit on penalties following a goalless draw with Morocco [1, 2].

The squad has faced setbacks due to injuries. Wingers Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams both carry hamstring injuries sustained in April 2026 before the tournament, impacting Spain’s attacking width [1, 2, 3, 4, 5]. To cover, Spain started Gavi and Ferran Torres on the flanks against Cape Verde [1, 2]. Further injuries from the group-clinching 1-0 win over Uruguay left Nico Williams with right leg discomfort and Yeremy Pino with a shoulder issue, though both could be fit if Spain reach the quarter-finals [1, 2, 3, 4, 5].

Coach Luis de la Fuente acknowledged losing attacking width has made Spain’s play more predictable and slowed ball circulation [1, 2]. Fabian Ruiz, a key player dropped to the bench in the last two games despite his Euro 2024 and Champions League pedigree, could be deployed in a wide role to compensate for injured wingers [3, 4, 5]. Ruiz emphasized the need for team unity and readiness: "What matters is winning; what matters is the team. Right now my role is to support and help them and to do my best, so that I’m ready whenever the coach wants me to play" [3]. New Liverpool signing Victor Munoz remains sidelined with a muscle problem and has yet to play in the tournament [3, 4, 5].

Austria finished second in Group J, reaching their first World Cup knockout stage in 44 years [1, 2]. They are expected to employ low-block defensive tactics similar to Cape Verde to disrupt Spain’s rhythm, relying on a physical approach at the back [1, 2]. Refereeing has generally allowed a fluid game though Spain was frustrated by a challenge that caused further injury to Nico Williams [3, 4, 5].

Spain's next step is the knockout match against Austria on July 2, where their fitness and tactical adaptations will be tested.