This is exactly where Spain should be.
Three group games, seven points, five goals scored and, most importantly, not a single goal conceded. We haven’t grabbed the headlines like France or Argentina, but we’ve quietly looked like one of the most complete teams in the tournament.
Austria deserve credit for reaching the knockout stage, but I think this is where their World Cup ends.
Here’s my 34.00 Bet Builder.
My Spain vs Austria Bet Builder (34.00)
- Spain to win
- Lamine Yamal anytime assist
- Lamine Yamal 2+ shots on target
- Nicolas Seiwald to be booked
- Mikel Oyarzabal anytime goalscorer
Spain To Win
Spain have looked in complete control throughout this tournament.
We’ve finished the group stage unbeaten with five goals scored, none conceded, generating 7.93 expected goals from 55 shots, while allowing opponents just four shots inside our penalty area all tournament.
Austria struggled badly against Argentina and I think Spain’s pressing and control of possession will prove too much over 90 minutes.
Lamine Yamal Anytime Assist
Luis de la Fuente has built this Spain side around technical control, but Yamal adds something different with his direct running and creativity. If Spain dominate the ball as expected, he’ll create plenty of chances for Oyarzabal and the runners around him.
I think this is the game where he really announces himself in the knockout stages.
Lamine Yamal 2+ Shots On Target
The headlines have belonged to Mbappe, Messi, Kane and Haaland so far, but Yamal won’t mind that.
He’s averaging 5.14 shots per 90 at this World Cup after taking eight shots already, while he averaged 4.64 shots per 90 across his Barcelona season, scoring a career-best 24 goals.
He’s becoming more confident with every match and I expect him to test the goalkeeper repeatedly tonight.
Nicolas Seiwald To Be Booked
This is all about the matchup.
Seiwald will spend most of the evening trying to contain Spain’s midfield, with Rodri, Pedri and Gavi constantly moving the ball through tight spaces.
Austria averaged just 48.2% possession compared to Spain’s 69.4%, so I expect Seiwald to spend long periods chasing the game and eventually picking up a yellow card.
Mikel Oyarzabal Anytime Goalscorer
Oyarzabal continues to deliver whenever Spain need him.
He scored twice against Saudi Arabia in the group stage and, ever since netting the winner in the Euro 2024 final, he’s become a player who thrives in the biggest moments.
If Yamal creates the chances, I fancy Oyarzabal to finish one of them.
Diego’s Prediction
Spain have looked calm, balanced and incredibly difficult to play against.
I don’t think Austria will create many opportunities, while our quality in possession should eventually wear them down.
Predicted score: Spain 2-0 Austria
Bet On Diego’s Bet Builder
Fancy backing my selections?
You can build this 34.00 Bet Builder on Bet9ja and follow Spain vs Austria with Bet Builder markets, player props, cards and live betting available throughout the match.
