Spain have quickly shaken off that opening stalemate with Cape Verde at the World Cup and have looked sharp since then, brushing aside Saudi Arabia and Uruguay without much fuss. The lads from La Roja have been putting plenty of goals past their opponents while keeping things tight at the back, and now they face an Austria side that loves to attack but often leaves gaps behind.
Team Form
Over the last two years Spain have not lost any match in regular time after their Euros triumph, with just one penalty shootout defeat to Portugal in the Nations League final. At this World Cup they remain unbeaten in the group with clean sheets in all three games so far. Austria on the other hand have found the net six times in their three group matches but have shipped the same number, conceding more with each outing.
- Spain: 5 goals scored, 0 conceded in group stage
- Austria: 6 goals scored, 6 conceded in group stage
- Head to head: Spain won 5-1 and 9-0 in recent meetings
Tactical Analysis
Spain’s attack has been firing on all cylinders with quick passing and plenty of movement up front, while their defence has hardly been tested properly yet. Austria will look to grab a goal on the break as they did against Jordan and Algeria, but their backline has looked shaky against stronger sides like Argentina. Expect Spain to control the middle of the park and create numerous chances while Austria push forward in search of a result.
Betting Proposal
The types are pointing towards a lively contest where both teams get on the scoresheet. Spain should have too much quality overall but Austria are capable of finding the net at least once.
Total goals over 2.5 at 1.85 looks the value pick here.
