Spain looks the better team after the group stage. Luis de la Fuente's side are unbeaten and have not conceded a single goal in three matches, beating Uruguay (1-0) and Saudi Arabia (4-0). Meanwhile, Austria, despite reaching the knockout stages for the first time since 1998, has been less reliable: their defense has conceded six goals, including three against Algeria. Furthermore, Spain has a psychological advantage in head-to-head encounters, having won nine of their sixteen matches against Austria.
Despite the losses in attack (Nico Williams and Yeremi Pino are injured), Spain has enough resources to open up their opponents' defense. Lamin Yamal will be a key figure, whose presence on the flank could prove decisive against Austria's sluggish defense. Given Austria's defensive problems, even with their high pressing, Spain will have plenty of scoring opportunities.
A Spanish victory seems the most likely outcome. Austria is capable of applying pressure and creating chances, but Spain's class and tactical flexibility, as well as their solid defensive play, should allow them to secure a clean sheet. We expect Spain to score at least two goals and keep a clean sheet, justifying their status as clear favorites.
