Nico Williams won’t start Spain’s 2026 FIFA World Cup Round of 32 clash against Austria at Los Angeles Stadium. The Athletic Club winger suffered a right adductor muscle injury following a heavy challenge during Spain’s previous match against Uruguay. Williams will be hoping to help later in Spain’s path to a potential final.
Williams has been listed as a substitute though, as Spain look to secure a place in the Round of 16 after finishing first in Group H. Gavi isn’t starting either, whereas Yeremy Pino is another injured player on the bench. Austria, meanwhile, enter the knockout match hoping to pull off one of the tournament’s biggest upsets after qualifying as one of the eight best third-placed teams. Stefan Posch continues to play with a mask.
Although the initial medical report from the Royal Spanish Football Federation (RFEF) described the injury as a moderate-grade adductor issue, Williams recently revealed that his recovery has progressed better than expected. “I was very strong with the words I posted on social media. I feel good. It’s been much less serious than I expected, so I’m eager to get back with the group.”
He also added: “Everything we’re’re doing here is going really well. I was devastated after getting injured because I didn’t know what had happened. Then, after the medical tests, I was praying for a miracle, and fortunately it came. It’s good news for everyone, and now I’m trying to get back on the field as soon as possible in the best condition,” Williams told Spanish public television.
Nicolas de la Cruz of Uruguay receives a yellow card after his challenged on Nico Williams. Luke Hales/Getty Images
What does his absence from the starting XI mean for Spain?
Spain will have to face Austria for a Round of 16 berth without one of their fastest and most creative wingers, but Luis de la Fuente‘s squad still arrives with confidence after an unbeaten group-stage campaign. Even though he won’t start, Williams could still come on at any moment.
Spain enter the Round of 32 after topping Group H with seven points, recording victories over Uruguay and Saudi Arabia after drawing with Cape Verde. Austria, meanwhile, qualified after defeating Jordan, losing to Argentina, and drawing with Algeria.
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Spain will attempt to reach another World Cup Round of 16 despite Williams’ absence from the starting XI, while Austria seek to recreate their famous 2-1 victory over La Roja at the 1978 World Cup. With a win, Spain face Portugal or Croatia on July 6 at Dallas Stadium.
