Oyarzabal, who has emerged as Spain’s most decisive player, scored both goals in the 36th and 66th minutes to secure a dominant victory over Austria. His first goal came after a precise cross from Marc Cucurella, while his second followed a continued display of Spanish control in the second half. The win extended Spain’s unbeaten streak to 34 matches, a run they could match with another win in the quarter-finals.

Spain’s Clinical Performance

Spain’s performance against Austria showcased their growing strength in the tournament. The team has now scored eight goals in four matches without conceding any. Their first game, a goalless draw with Cape Verde, was a surprise, but they have since built momentum. Oyarzabal, playing more centrally, has adapted well to the role, saying, “If you play higher up the pitch, and especially if you’re a striker like myself, it all comes down to a few moments.”

Spain’s second goal came after Austria attempted a long-ball strategy, sending on two tall strikers, Sasa Kalajdzic and Marko Arnautovic. However, their efforts proved ineffective, and Spain capitalized on their continued dominance. Oyarzabal said after the match, “I’m happy to help the team and get through to the next round. Now we need to rest.”

Psychological Edge and Tactical Depth

Oyarzabal emphasized the mental aspect of his game, noting, “I always had this voice in my head, ‘It doesn’t matter if you missed one – there will be more.’ I could smell goals, and that voice was always in my head.” His mindset reflects the broader Spanish approach — one based on persistence and composure under pressure.

Former England striker Dion Dublin praised Spain’s adaptability, saying, “I think Spain have got more gears to go through. They were comfortable playing in third or fourth gear against Austria because they knew the opposition didn’t have anything to offer.” Dublin added that when Spain face stronger sides like Portugal or Croatia, they are capable of raising their intensity further.

Oyarzabal also downplayed the significance of the next opponent, remarking, “It doesn’t matter who we face in the next round; I have friends in both teams.” His attitude reflects the team’s focus on process over outcome, a philosophy that has underpinned their recent success.

Key Contributions and Tactical Shifts

Several key moments defined the match. Cucurella had a goal disallowed for offside after a corner from Lamine Yamal, and Alexander Schlager made a central diving save to deny Oyarzabal early in the game. Austria had a rare chance in the first half when Stefan Posch was unmarked, but a poor touch denied him from taking a shot.

Oyarzabal’s first goal came after Pedri sent a diagonal ball to Cucurella, who delivered a cross that Oyarzabal finished with a composed side-footed strike. Spain’s control continued in the second half, with Yamal causing constant trouble for the Austrian backline. An Alex Baena free kick hit the crossbar, and Yamal’s follow-up was saved by Schlager.

Spain’s 2-0 win sends them into the next round with confidence, where they will face either Portugal or Croatia. Their unbeaten run, tactical flexibility, and clinical finishing make them one of the most formidable teams in the tournament. Oyarzabal’s two goals not only secured the victory but also highlighted his growing importance in the Spanish national team.