Spain and Austria have confirmed their starting elevens for their FIFA World Cup knockout meeting in Los Angeles, though sources differ on whether this fixture represents the Round of 32 or the Round of 16. Kick-off is scheduled for 20:00 UK time on Thursday, with the winners advancing to face either Portugal or Croatia.
The European champions enter the tie unbeaten after topping Group H with seven points. They began with a goalless draw against Cape Verde before recording a 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia and a 1-0 win against Uruguay.
Team Selections
Spain make two changes from their previous outing, with Pedro Porro and Dani Olmo coming in for Marcos Llorente and Mikel Merino. Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal starts in attack alongside Mikel Oyarzabal and Alex Baena. Alejandro Grimaldo, who recently completed his transfer from Bayer Leverkusen to Atletico Madrid, is again named among the substitutes.
The probable Spain XI sees Simon in goal, with Pedro Porro, Cubarsi, Laporte and Cucurella across the defence. Pedri and Rodri provide the midfield platform, with Olmo, Yamal and Baena supporting Oyarzabal.
Austria’s line-up features seven Bundesliga-based players selected by coach Ralf Rangnick, who recently signed a new contract with the Federation after considering a technical director role at Milan. Como-owned defender Stefan Posch starts, but reports conflict over whether veteran striker Marko Arnautovic or Michael Gregoritsch leads the attack, and whether Philipp Lienhart or Kevin Danso partners David Alaba at centre-back.
The Austrians secured their knockout place in dramatic fashion, with Sasa Kalajdzic scoring in the 96th minute to earn a 3-3 draw against Algeria in their final group match.
Route to the Knockouts
While Spain progressed smoothly as group winners, Austria’s path was turbulent. They opened with a 3-1 victory over Jordan before suffering a 2-0 defeat to Argentina, leaving them dependent on the late heroics against Algeria to advance. Former Inter striker Arnautovic provides experience in attack if selected.
What Comes Next
The victor will progress to meet either Portugal or Croatia in the next round. Spain are considered among the tournament favourites, while Austria aim to continue their surprise campaign.