Spain will face Austria in the 32nd match of the knockout phase of the World Cup 2026 on Thursday night. A number of interesting betting promotions have also emerged as we enter the knockout stages. **ANALYSIS**: Spain to win **Best Odds**: 4/11 **Bookmaker**: 1xbet **Spain** Spain drew 0-0 against 2026 World Cup debutants Cape Verde in their first match at the World Cup. But then they improved their performance. They finished first in Group H and qualified for the knockout stage. In their last match they finished the group stage with a 1-0 victory over Uruguay. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente has changed the team's style of play a bit. Now they are focusing more on defensive play instead of offensive play. No goals were scored against them in the group stage. **Changes in Spain's team** 18-year-old Lamine Yamal failed to score against Cape Verde but will play a key role against Austria. Of course, Real Madrid's new signing Marc Cucurella will be in the squad. In addition, Alex Baena of Atletico Madrid, Rodri and from Man City Levante to Yamal. **Austria** Austria qualified for the knockout stage by finishing second behind Argentina in their group. But their game was very disappointing.
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The group stage ended with a 3-3 draw with Algeria. It will be a tough match for Austria coach Ralf Rangnik. Austria have won just 2 of their last 6 competitive matches. **Austria Team Changes** Austria captain David Alaba will play. Besides, goal scorer Marko Arnautovic will also be in the team. **Spain vs Austria: Some Stats** Spain won 5-1 in the last meeting between the two teams in 2009. Spain are undefeated in the total of 5 meetings between the two teams. Spain have won 5 of their last 6 matches and drawn 1. Austria, however, are in very disappointing form. They have won only 2 of their last 6 matches. **Brief Analysis** Spain have won several titles for their defensive play. They have not conceded a goal yet in this World Cup. There might be some hope if Austria can change their game style, but given current form, a win over Spain would be logical. That's why we prefer Spain to win. --- ## Related Articles 1. [Mundial 2026](https://pitchpulsemedia.com/en/news/lautaro-responds-to-criticism-you-are-obsessed-with-goals-i-focus-on-the-team) 2. [World Cup 2026: Đức vs Paraguay - Kai Havertz ghi bàn go hoa](https://banthangvn.com/vi/news/world-cup-2026-uc-vs-paraguay-kai-havertz-ghi-ban-go-hoa)