Why Spain defeating Austria is terrible for Portugal and Cristiano Ronaldo

Cristiano Ronaldo and the rest of the Portugal team won’t be best pleased to have witnessed Spain cruise past Austria into the Last 16 at the FIFA World Cup 2026.

Luis de la Fuente’s side dominated their rivals, winning 3-0 in a destructive performance.

Portugal can’t get to the World Cup final without facing Spain

While Spain hasn’t been at their brilliant best throughout the rest of the tournament, it looks like things have finally clicked into gear. Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring, effortlessly smashing the ball into the back of the net, before Pedro Porro utilised his head to double his side’s lead. Then, in the dying minutes of the game, Oyarzabal bagged his second to send Austria home.

The result certainly wasn’t ideal for Portugal. Cristiano Ronaldo currently faces a very dangerous path to FIFA World Cup glory, with his side, if they overcome Croatia later, having to play, Spain, and then most likely Belgium, France and Argentina if they want to emerge as champions.

WOW: Arjen Robben was more difficult to play against than Cristiano Ronaldo, says ex-Liverpool star

This road to stardom would’ve been much easier had Austria pulled off an upset result against the Spaniards. Alas, as of right now, Portugal will have to be at their very best in each and every single match-up.