Spain 3-0 Austria player ratings, De la Fuente’s side dominate | OneFootball

Spain swept aside Austria 3-0 in their first do-or-die match of the World Cup, a commanding win that fuels belief they can go all the way.

According to El Periódico Mediterráneo, Luis de la Fuente kept the same XI as their biggest win, with Pedro Porro at right-back and Dani Olmo as No 10. Mikel Merino and Marcos Llorente were left out, Álex Baena started left and Lamine Yamal right.

Spain arrived without conceding, facing an Austria side renowned for pressing high. It was not enough to stop a dominant team who led only 1-0 at the break.

Unai Simón exuded calm, even heading clear to stop a Marko Arnautovic foray, and marshalled a vigilant back line. Rodri began safely then stepped forward, drawing applause for a long-range effort.

Pau Cubarsí and Aymeric Laporte read everything, strong in the air and on the deck, their line-breaking passes easing Spain through Austria’s press. Their partnership is yet to concede at this World Cup.

Marc Cucurella had an early strike ruled out for a strict foul, then fed Porro for 2-0 and launched the third with another forward pass. Porro, a fine foil for Lamine, arrived late to score the calming second.

Olmo stitched play between the lines. Lamine repeatedly unsettled Austria and merited a goal. Baena’s set-piece threatened on half-time.

Mikel Oyarzabal’s smart movement unpicked defenders and his brace sealed Spain’s authority. This was a collective statement.

Source: El Periódico Mediterráneo