The first instance occurred during the 1954 quarterfinal, famously dubbed “The Heat Battle of Lausanne.” The host nation, Switzerland, stunned Austria by racing to a 3-0 lead within the first 19 minutes. In an unbelievable response, Austria unleashed a ferocious counter-attack, scoring five goals in just 15 minutes to flip the match and ultimately triumph 7-5, a classic that has been relegated to second place in the highest-scoring games list in World Cup history.

Twelve years later, Portugal matched the record during the 1966 quarterfinals against surprise giant-killers North Korea. The North Koreans shocked the crowd at Goodison Park by sweeping into a 3-0 lead in under 25 minutes. However, the legendary Eusebio single-handedly rescued Portugal, putting on an absolute masterclass by scoring four consecutive goals to spark a stunning 5-3 victory.

France couldn’t make history in the 2026 World Cup

In the 2026 FIFA World Cup third-place game, France faced off against England in a high-stakes clash. During the first half, the Three Lions put on a clinical display, scoring four goals while conceding none. This dominant performance came despite England fielding a heavily rotated lineup, leaving world-class forwards like Harry Kane on the bench as backup options.

While many spectators already assumed England had secured their spot on the podium as bronze medal winners, France mounted a stunning second-half response. Waking up quickly after the interval, Les Bleus fired back with three unanswered goals—fueled by a clinical Kylian Mbappe brace and a sharp finish by Bradley Barcola. The unexpected onslaught completely shifted the momentum, leading fans worldwide to believe a legendary comeback was genuinely possible.

However, just as France seemed poised to equalize, right-back Malo Gusto conceded a devastating penalty that Bukayo Saka effortlessly converted to complete his magnificent hat-trick. Ousmane Dembele subsequently found the back of the net to pull Les Bleus back within one at 5-4, but it ultimately proved too late. A final stoppage-time goal by Jude Bellingham mathematically shattered French dreams, put the game to bed, and sealed a chaotic 6-4 victory for England.

Few expected Austria to reach the knockout stage, yet they once again proved capable of competing with some of the world’s strongest teams. This World Cup follows another encouraging international campaign. At UEFA Euro 2024, Austria won a difficult group that included France before narrowly losing to Turkiye in the Round of 16.

Now, at the 2026 World Cup, Austria advanced from a group featuring Argentina, Algeria, and Jordan before finally being stopped by one of the tournament favorites.

Are Austria out of the 2026 World Cup?

Yes. Austria have officially been eliminated from the 2026 World Cup after losing 2-0 to Spain in the Round of 32. Spain’s quality ultimately proved too much, ending Austria’s hopes of reaching the Round of 16.

However, it’s important to remember that this was Austria’s first appearance in the World Cup since 1998. Despite the defeat, Austria leave the tournament with plenty of positives.

Austria once again showed they can compete on the biggest international stage, continuing the progress made under Ralf Rangnick over the past few years. Reaching the knockout stage after surviving one of the toughest groups in the competition is another indication that Austria are moving closer to becoming a consistent European threat.

What’s next for Spain in 2026 World Cup?

Spain advanced to the Round of 16, where La Roja will face either Portugal or Croatia. That blockbuster knockout match will be played next Monday at Dallas Stadium, with a place in the quarterfinals at stake as Spain continue their pursuit of a second World Cup title.

What’s next for Austria after elimination in 2026 WC?

With their World Cup campaign now over, Austria’s attention turns toward UEFA Euro 2028 qualifying and the next cycle of international competitions. Given the steady progress shown over the past several years, Austrian supporters have every reason to believe this generation can continue challenging Europe’s powerhouses.

Yamal and Spain are well aware of the big test ahead, as La Furia Roja will face France in the upcoming round. Moreover, if Luis de la Fuente and his side want to plan even further ahead, other threatening names emerge.

In order to reach the 2026 World Cup final, Spain must take down some true contenders. To become the best team in the world, one must defeat the best teams in the world. Clearly, Spain’s potential road to glory in the United States, Mexico, and Canada will be no different.

Spain’s potential path to World Cup final

Spain move on to the semifinals; they officially go up against France, scheduled on Tuesday, July 14, at 3:00 p.m. ET at Dallas Stadium, with a place in the 2026 FIFA World Cup final at stake. The contest would bring back old storylines for La Furia Roja and make for must watch TV.

As for a potential World Cup final appearance in 2026, Spain’s opponent would be one of Norway, England, Argentina, or Switzerland. That will be something for Spain to worry about later. For the time being, the Spaniards must play the board in front of them.

Spain’s dream World Cup bracket

Spain’s road to a World Cup final could look more like their run at UEFA Euro 2024 than one in a FIFA World Cup. In 2010, however, three of the four teams Spain eliminated in the knockout stage were European. Maybe it’s a theme in tournaments in which La Furia Roja go the distance.

Although some fans may argue they’d like Spain to face the easiest opponents possible, others want the national team to meet historic rivals and take down some of the top contenders in the 2026 World Cup. In that sense, there’s a scenario in which Spain meet—and defeat—some of their biggest antagonists.

That dream path to a World Cup championship could look something like this: France in the semifinals. In the final, one of two opponents: England or Argentina, two sides Spain have bad blood with on the pitch—and in history books.

Now, Austria face their biggest challenge yet in the Round of 32 against Spain, a team loaded with attacking talent such as Lamine Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Mikel Oyarzabal.

Stopping La Roja will require another outstanding performance from Stefan and the Austrian back line. One detail that has caught the attention of fans during the tournament is the protective mask Posch has been wearing in every match.

Why is Stefan Posch wearing a mask in Austria vs Spain?

Stefan Posch is wearing a protective mask after suffering a fractured jaw during Austria’s opening World Cup match against Jordan. The injury initially raised fears that the Mainz defender could miss the remainder of the tournament. Fortunately for Austria, surgery was not required, allowing Posch to recover quickly enough to remain available for every match.

Has the injury affected Stefan Posch in 2026 WC?

Not significantly. Despite the fractured jaw, Posch has continued to play every game while wearing the custom-made protective mask. The facial protection helps shield the injury from further contact while the bone continues to heal.

Will Posch continue wearing the mask?

Yes. Until doctors determine that his jaw has fully recovered, Stefan Posch is expected to continue wearing the protective mask during matches. Austria will hope the experienced defender can once again anchor the back line as they attempt to pull off a major upset against Spain in the Round of 32.

Ever since Spain announced their 26-man squad, Gavi has been one of the most debated selections. Many critics argued that coach Luis de la Fuente should not have included the Barcelona midfielder after he spent much of the past year recovering from a serious injury and played only limited minutes at the end of the club season.

Despite those concerns, De la Fuente kept his faith in Gavi and brought him to the World Cup. However, the midfielder has struggled to establish himself as a regular starter during the tournament.

Why isn’t Gavi playing today for Spain vs Austria?

Gavi is not in Spain’s starting lineup against Austria because of a tactical decision made by coach Luis de la Fuente. Instead, Spain’s midfield will be led by Rodri, Pedri, and Alex Baena, while Dani Olmo and Lamine Yamal also return to the starting XI as part of an attack-focused lineup. The decision reflects De la Fuente’s preference for continuity heading into the knockout rounds. Nico Williams isn’t starting either, but his absence has to do with a recent injury.

Why has Gavi lost his starting spot with Spain?

Gavi started Spain’s opening match of the tournament against Cape Verde, but he was deployed in a wider role that is not his natural position. The performance failed to convince the coaching staff, and since that match he has not started another game. With Spain searching for greater balance in midfield, De la Fuente has consistently preferred other options in the starting lineup.

Can Gavi still play today?

Yes. Although he is not in the starting XI, Gavi is available on the bench and could play an important role if Spain needs fresh energy during the second half. Given his quality and versatility, he remains one of Luis de la Fuente’s most valuable options as Spain looks to advance to the Round of 16. Another player on the bench is Yeremy Pino, who recentyl suffered an injury.

La Roja entered the tournament as one of the favorites to lift the trophy, but the group stage left plenty of questions unanswered. Although Spain finished first in Group H, the team was far from convincing against Cape Verde and Uruguay despite producing a dominant victory over Saudi Arabia. Injuries have also become a growing concern, with Nico Williams on the bench and Yeremy Pino also on the bench while Lamine Yamal starts despite not being at full fitness.

Meanwhile, Austria quietly emerged as one of the tournament’s dark horses. The Austrians finished second in Group J, which also featured Argentina, Algeria, and Jordan, and have shown enough quality to believe they can challenge one of Europe’s traditional powers. Goalkeeper Alexander Schlager hopes to play a key role today.

What happens if Spain win vs Austria today?

If Spain win against Austria, they will advance to the Round of 16. Their next opponent would be the winner of Portugal vs Croatia, setting up a blockbuster showdown featuring Lamine Yamal against either Cristiano Ronaldo or Luka Modric. The game between the winner of Spain-Austria and Portugal or Croatia is scheduled for July 6 at Dallas Stadium. Spain would then face a challenging path to a potential final.

It would also represent Spain’s first knockout-stage victory at a FIFA World Cup since winning the tournament in 2010. Austria would be eliminated from the competition with a loss today.

What happens if Spain and Austria tie in 2026 World Cup?

If Spain and Austria tie after 90 minutes, the game will go to 30 minutes of extra time. Should the score remain tied after extra time, the winner will be decided by a penalty shootout. That scenario may worry Spanish fans. Spain’s last two World Cup eliminations both came on penalties, against Russia in 2018 and Morocco in 2022.

What happens if Spain lose today vs Austria?

If Spain lose against Austria, they will be officially eliminated from the 2026 World Cup in one of the biggest surprises of the knockout stage. Such a defeat would deepen questions surrounding the European champions and coach Luis de la Fuente.

For Austria, a victory would secure a place in the Round of 16, where they would face either Portugal or Croatia on July 6 at Dallas Stadium. It’s important to remember that their best performance in tournament’s history was a third-place finish in 1954.

With his sharp reflexes, composure under pressure and experience at both club and international level, he has become a key figure for the national team while continuing to compete at the highest level with Red Bull Salzburg.

His impressive performances earned him a return to Salzburg in 2023, where he has added domestic titles and valuable UEFA competition experience to his résumé. Four years earlier, he had made his senior debut for Austria.

How old is Alexander Schlager?

Alexander Schlager is 30 years old. The Austrian goalkeeper was born on February 1, 1996, in Salzburg, Austria. He developed through the Red Bull Salzburg academy before gaining first-team experience on loan at SV Grodig.

After several standout seasons with LASK, he returned to Red Bull Salzburg in 2023 as one of Austria’s most experienced goalkeepers. By the time he rejoined his boyhood club, he had already become a regular for the national team.

How tall is Alexander Schlager?

Alexander Schlager is 1.84 meters (6 feet) tall. While he is slightly shorter than many modern goalkeepers, he has made up for it with excellent positioning, quick reflexes, and strong decision-making inside the penalty area.

He is also known for his composure with the ball at his feet, an important trait for teams that prefer building from the back. His athleticism and consistency have helped him compete at both the domestic and international levels

When did Alexander Schlager make his Austria debut?

Alexander Schlager made his senior debut for Austria on November 16, 2019. He earned his first cap in a UEFA Euro 2020 qualifying match against Latvia after progressing through Austria’s youth national teams.

He has become one of Austria’s most trusted goalkeepers. He has represented his country in UEFA European Championship competition and FIFA World Cup qualifying, earning a regular place in the squad under head coach Ralf Rangnick.

Which club does Alexander Schlager play for?

Alexander Schlager plays for Red Bull Salzburg. The Austrian goalkeeper returned to his hometown club in May 2023, signing a contract through 2027 after spending six successful seasons with LASK.

His return marked a homecoming, as he had spent much of his youth career in the Salzburg academy before leaving to gain regular first-team experience elsewhere. Since rejoining the club, he has helped them to compete for Austrian Bundesliga titles.

Alexander Schlager’s career highlights

Rose through Red Bull Salzburg’s academy before becoming a first-team regular elsewhere: Schlager spent much of his youth career in the Red Bull Salzburg system but gained valuable senior experience through loan spells with SV Grödig and Floridsdorfer AC. Those seasons allowed him to develop into a starting goalkeeper before making the permanent move to LASK in 2017.

Established himself as one of the Austrian Bundesliga’s best goalkeepers with LASK: After initially serving as a backup, Schlager earned the starting job and went on to make more than 150 league appearances for LASK. During his six seasons with the club, he played a key role in helping the team qualify for European competitions, including the UEFA Europa League and UEFA Champions League qualifying rounds, earning a reputation as one of Austria’s most reliable shot-stoppers.

Returned to Red Bull Salzburg in 2023 as Austria’s No. 1 goalkeeper: After proving himself at LASK, Schlager completed a homecoming by signing a four-year contract with Salzburg through 2027. His return reunited him with the club where he spent much of his youth development and gave him the opportunity to compete regularly in UEFA Champions League soccer.

Won multiple domestic trophies with Red Bull Salzburg: Since returning to Salzburg, Schlager has helped the club continue its success in Austrian soccer, winning the 2023-24 Austrian Bundesliga title and the 2023-24 Austrian Cup while also making appearances in UEFA Champions League competition. He was additionally recognized as the Austrian Bundesliga Goalkeeper of the Season for the 2023-24 campaign, highlighting his impact after returning to his boyhood club.

Became a regular for the Austria national team: Schlager made his senior international debut on November 16, 2019, in a UEFA Euro 2020 qualifier. Since then, he has represented Austria in UEFA European Championship competition, FIFA World Cup qualifiers, and the 2026 FIFA World Cup, cementing his place as one of the country’s top goalkeepers. Although a knee injury forced him to miss UEFA Euro 2024, he returned to the national team and remained one of Austria’s first-choice options in goal.

The injury occurred following a heavy challenge after Pino entered as a second-half substitute. Although medical examinations ruled out a collarbone fracture, the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) confirmed that Pino sustained an acromioclavicular sprain.

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente acknowledged after the Uruguay match that the winger had been in significant pain, while the federation later stated that his recovery will determine when he can return to action.

Even without Nico Williams in the starting XI, Spain face Austria looking to secure a place in the Round of 16 after finishing atop Group H. Austria, meanwhile, advanced as one of the tournament’s eight best third-placed teams and will attempt to produce another World Cup upset.

Can Spain manage without Yeremy Pino in the starting XI?

Spain qualified for the Round of 32 after finishing first in Group H with seven points, recording victories over Uruguay and Saudi Arabia while drawing with Cape Verde. Even though Yeremy Pino won’t be in the starting XI, he remains available on the bench and could come on at any moment if the team needs him. The same goes for Gavi, who isn’t starting today either.

Austria earned their place in the knockout stage after defeating Jordan, losing to Argentina, and drawing with Algeria. Spain will now attempt to continue their World Cup campaign without one of their attacking options as they look to reach the Round of 16.

That accomplishment, however, comes with an enormous challenge. Austria’s reward is a knockout showdown against reigning European champion Spain in Los Angeles, where one of the biggest upsets of the tournament could unfold.

Beyond reaching the knockout stage, Austria’s performances throughout the World Cup have also had a positive impact on the FIFA World Rankings, allowing the team to climb in the live standings ahead of the clash with La Roja, where a win, tie or loss will determine Austria’s future at the 2026 World Cup.

What is Austria’s current FIFA ranking?

Austria are currently ranked No. 23 in the FIFA World Ranking with 1,598.82 points. Since the start of the 2026 World Cup, Austria have climbed one position thanks to their performances during the group stage. It contrasts with Spain’s FIFA ranking, which is much higher.

How has the World Cup affected Austria’s FIFA ranking?

Austria earned 15.45 FIFA ranking points after opening their campaign with an impressive 3-1 victory over Algeria. The team then lost 12.87 points following a defeat to Argentina before dropping another 1.17 points after a dramatic 3-3 draw in the final group-stage match.

Can Austria reach the FIFA Top 20?

Yes. A victory over Spain in the Round of 32 would not only send Austria into the Round of 16 but would also provide a significant boost in the FIFA rankings. Eliminating one of the favorites to win the World Cup could move Austria much closer to breaking into the FIFA Top 20 while marking one of the greatest victories in the nation’s soccer history.

FIFA has handed the whistle to Glenn Nyberg of Sweden, one of UEFA’s fastest-rising referees. The 37-year-old official has already worked multiple matches during the 2026 World Cup and continues to earn high-profile assignments.

As Spain looks to continue its title bid and Austria chases a memorable upset, Nyberg and his officiating crew, selected for one of the day’s biggest knockout matches, will be under the spotlight from the opening whistle.

What is Glenn Nyberg’s refereeing style?

Glenn Nyberg is known for his calm, consistent approach and for allowing the game to flow whenever possible. Rather than stopping play for every minor foul, the Swedish referee generally favors communication with players.

He only reaches for disciplinary cards when challenges or behavior clearly warrant them. That style has helped him earn appointments to some of Europe’s biggest club and international matches.

He has established himself as one of UEFA‘s top officials over the past few seasons, taking charge of UEFA Champions League knockout matches, the UEFA Euro 2024, and the 2025 FIFA Club World Cup before being selected in 2026.

Statistically, he is not considered an overly card-happy referee. During the 2025-26 season before the World Cup, he averaged just over three yellow cards per match and had shown only one red card across 19 appearances.

Spain will also be familiar with Nyberg. He previously officiated La Roja’s UEFA Euro 2024 group-stage victory over Albania and their UEFA Nations League quarterfinal against the Netherlands.

Who are the assistant referees and VAR officials?

Glenn Nyberg will be assisted by fellow Swedes Mahbod Beigi and Andreas Soderkvist, while Dahane Beida of Mauritania will serve as the fourth official. Cameroon’s Elvis Noupue has been appointed reserve assistant referee. Per the uniform assignments for Spain vs. Austria, the referees will wear a green shirt.

Beigi and Soderkvist have formed Nyberg’s regular officiating team for several years, working alongside him in the Swedish Allsvenskan, UEFA Champions League, UEFA Europa League and other major international competitions.

The Video Assistant Referee for Spain vs. Austria will be Poland’s Tomasz Kwiatkowski, with Switzerland’s Fedayi San serving as the Assistant VAR (AVAR). Australia’s Shaun Evans has been appointed as the Support VAR (SVAR).

How to watch Spain vs Austria in the USA

Viewers in the United States can watch the action live on FOX and Telemundo through traditional cable and satellite providers.

The match is also streaming on Fubo, DirecTV Stream, Sling Blue, Hulu + Live TV, and Peacock Premium. Don’t miss the action.

Can I watch Spain vs Austria for free?

Fans across the United States can stream this exciting matchup live on Fubo and DirecTV Stream, with both platforms offering eligible new users a free five-day trial.

Available nationwide, both services let viewers enjoy every decisive moment of the match from the opening whistle through the final seconds.

Match Preview: What’s at stake?

Spain heads into this all-European showdown riding plenty of momentum after overcoming an early scare in the group stage to finish on top with authority, capping its campaign with an impressive win over Uruguay.

Now, led by rising star Lamine Yamal, La Roja faces an Austria side that has shown it can be a dangerous opponent despite an inconsistent group-stage run, highlighted by a difficult opening half-hour against Argentina.

Austria will need a near-flawless performance to keep pace with one of the tournament favorites as it looks to spring a major upset and advance.

Spain vs Austria: Predicted Lineups

Spain (4-3-3): Unai Simon; Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella; Rodri, Fabio Ruiz, Pedri; Lamine Yamal, Mikel Oyarzabal, Nico Williams.

Austria (4-2-3-1): Patrick Pentz; Stefan Posch, Kevin Danso, Philipp Lienhart, Phillipp Mwene; Nicolas Seiwald, Xaver Schlager; Patrick Wimmer, Marcel Sabitzer, Romano Schmid; Marko Arnautovic.

What time is the Spain vs Austria match?

The match kicks off today, July 2, at 3:00 PM (ET). For viewers in different regions of the United States, here are the local start times:

Eastern Time: 3:00 PM
Central Time: 2:00 PM
Mountain Time: 1:00 PM
Pacific Time: 12:00 PM