Spain produced one of the most complete performances of the knockout stages so far as they brushed aside Austria with a commanding 3–0 victory in Los Angeles. The European champions controlled the contest from the opening whistle with their trademark possession-based football and never allowed Austria to settle.

Mikel Oyarzabal was the star of the show as he scored twice, while Spain’s defensive organisation once again proved to be a major strength as they recorded another clean sheet.

The result sent out a strong message to the rest of the tournament contenders, with Spain looking every bit like a team capable of challenging for the title.

Later in Toronto, Portugal was made to work hard for their place in the next round as they edged Croatia 2–1 in one of the standout fixtures of the Round of 32.

As expected, the match was a tactical battle between two experienced European sides. Croatia pushed Portugal all the way, but the Portuguese showed their big-match temperament to find a way through. The win also set up a mouth-watering Round of 16 showdown against Spain – a clash that promises to be one of the biggest games of the tournament.

Cristiano Ronaldo became the oldest player to score a goal in the World Cup final knockout game. Photo: FIFA

Meanwhile, Switzerland continued their impressive World Cup campaign with a solid 2–0 victory over Algeria in Vancouver.

The Swiss were disciplined, organised and clinical when their chances arrived, while Algeria’s journey came to an end after a spirited run in the tournament. Switzerland’s consistency has made them one of the dangerous outsiders heading into the next stage.

The Round of 32 will conclude on Friday with three more intriguing fixtures as teams continue their push towards the business end of the tournament.

Australia and Egypt will get the action underway in Dallas, with both nations chasing a historic place in the last 16. Australia’s physical approach and high work rate will come up against an Egyptian side known for their technical ability and attacking threat.

The spotlight will then shift to Miami, where defending champions Argentina face tournament surprise package Cape Verde.

Argentina will go into the match as favourites, but Cape Verde has already captured the imagination of football fans around the world with its historic campaign and fearless performances on the biggest stage.

The final Round of 32 fixture will see Colombia take on Ghana in Kansas in a clash that promises plenty of pace, skill and attacking football.

Colombia’s flair and creativity will be tested by the Black Stars determined to continue Africa’s representation deep into the tournament.

With several giants already safely through and a few surprise packages still alive, the race for World Cup glory is heating up. The knockout rounds have already provided memorable moments, and with a place in the last 16 on the line, Friday’s fixtures are expected to add another exciting chapter to what has been a thrilling tournament across the United States, Canada and Mexico.

OFM Sport/Morgan Piek sm