Spain tipped to shut out Austria as Portugal faces tricky Croatia draw in World Cup knockout round

De la Fuente's endorsement came after Yamal set tongues wagging with comments made in a radio interview earlier this week, in which the 17-year-old Barcelona winger suggested Spain had yet to show their true colors and predicted a dominant run once the team clicked.

Alongside the games, the tournament continues to deliver big storylines, including surprise results and late comebacks to fan celebrations, controversy and off-field headlines.

European champions Spain and Cristiano Ronaldo’s Portugal aim to book their places in the last 16 of the World Cup on Thursday as Algeria look to salvage some pride for African football.

All three co-hosts, Canada, Mexico and the USA, have secured a spot in the Round of 16, as have heavyweights England, France, Brazil, Morocco and Belgium.