Portugal to face Spain in 2026 World Cup last 16 | OneFootball

Portugal will face Spain in the 2026 World Cup last 16 after Luis de la Fuente’s side came through the first knockout hurdle. The tournament is being staged in the United States, Mexico and Canada.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, Spain had stuttered in the groups but raised their level in the eliminators, beating Austria in the round of 32. With Nico Williams and Yeremy Pino injured and Víctor Muñoz still short of full fitness, De la Fuente leaned on his squad depth to name a competitive XI.

Austria reached the last 32 with one win, one draw and one defeat, and approached the tie with ambition rather than retreat. They troubled Spain in phases, but the favourites’ quality told in a no-margin knockout.

The victory underlined Spain’s credentials despite the absences, showing they have the tools to adapt when injuries disrupt the initial plan.

Portugal await after overcoming Croatia. They did not top group K, yet advanced from a contentious finale, which included Cristiano Ronaldo’s first World Cup knockout goal.

Spain meet Portugal on Monday 6 July at 21:00 Spanish peninsular time, at AT&T Stadium in Dallas.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo