Spain vs Austria Dream11 Prediction: Fantasy Football Tips, Playing XI, Captain Picks for FIFA World Cup 2026 Last 32 Match

The FIFA World Cup 2026 knockout stage heats up as European champions Spain lock horns with Austria in a Last 32 clash. Scheduled for Friday, July 3, at 12:30 AM IST, this high-stakes encounter promises tactical intrigue at the iconic Los Angeles Stadium in Inglewood, California. Will Lamine Yamal Play in Spain vs Austria FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 Match?.

Spain enters this fixture as heavy favorites, having topped Group H without conceding a single goal, despite an initial goalless draw against Cabo Verde. La Roja then showcased their attacking prowess with a dominant 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia and a hard-fought 1-0 win against Uruguay. Their patient build-up play and robust defensive discipline, anchored by Rodri, have been hallmarks of their campaign.

Austria, led by Ralf Rangnick, has navigated a more eventful path to the knockout rounds. They secured their spot as Group J runners-up, kicking off with a 3-1 win over Jordan, followed by a 0-2 loss to Argentina, and a thrilling 3-3 draw against Algeria, where a last-gasp equalizer earned them a crucial point. Known for their aggressive pressing and quick transitions, Austria will aim to disrupt Spain's rhythm.

Match Details

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Spain (Group H Winners):

Spain 0-0 Cabo Verde

Spain 4-0 Saudi Arabia

Uruguay 0-1 Spain

Austria (Group J Runners-up):

Austria 3-1 Jordan

Argentina 2-0 Austria

Algeria 3-3 Austria

Head-to-Head Record

Historically, Spain has dominated this fixture. In 16 international matches, Spain has secured 9 victories, while Austria has won 4, with 3 matches ending in a draw. Their last encounter was a 5-1 friendly win for Spain in November 2009. Will Cristiano Ronaldo Play in Portugal vs Croatia FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 32 Match?.

Key Players to Watch

For Spain, the attacking brilliance of Lamine Yamal will be pivotal, despite recent fitness concerns. Midfield maestro Rodri, the 2024 Ballon d'Or winner, remains crucial for dictating tempo and providing defensive cover. Pedri's creativity and Mikel Oyarzabal's finishing ability will also be key.

Austria will rely heavily on their captain and defensive leader, David Alaba. Midfielder Marcel Sabitzer brings vital experience and attacking drive, while veteran striker Marko Arnautović remains their all-time leading scorer and a focal point upfront.

Suggested Fantasy XI (Spain vs Austria)

Considering Spain's defensive solidity and attacking talent, a balanced fantasy XI should lean towards their key players, with a few Austrian differentials.

Goalkeeper: Unai Simón (Spain)

Defenders: Marcos Llorente (Spain), Pau Cubarsí (Spain), Aymeric Laporte (Spain), David Alaba (Austria)

Midfielders: Rodri (Spain), Pedri (Spain), Marcel Sabitzer (Austria), Lamine Yamal (Spain)

Forwards: Mikel Oyarzabal (Spain), Marko Arnautović (Austria)

Captain and Vice-Captain Picks

Captain: Lamine Yamal (Spain) – His electrifying pace and goal-scoring threat make him a prime candidate for big fantasy points.

Vice-Captain: Rodri (Spain) – A consistent performer, Rodri accumulates points through accurate passing, tackles, and defensive contributions, with an occasional goal or assist.

Budget Differentials

Marc Cucurella (Spain): As an attacking left-back, he could provide assists and defensive points.

Konrad Laimer (Austria): A high-energy midfielder, Laimer's defensive work rate and box-to-box presence could offer unexpected returns. Lionel Messi Reacts During Argentina's Metal Detector Security Check in Miami Ahead Of FIFA World Cup 2026 Match (Watch Video).

Players to Avoid

Avoid players with limited minutes or those from Austria who are primarily defensive and less likely to contribute to attacking returns, given Spain's strong defense. Similarly, Spanish attacking players not expected to start might be a risk.

Spain is widely expected to progress, but Austria's tenacity under Ralf Rangnick could make this a tighter contest than many anticipate. Fantasy managers should prioritize Spain's defensive strength and the attacking flair of their forwards and creative midfielders, while keeping an eye on key Austrian players who are central to their counter-attacking strategy.

(The above story first appeared on LatestLY on Jul 02, 2026 05:15 PM IST. For more news and updates on politics, world, sports, entertainment and lifestyle, log on to our website latestly.com).