Yamal Fires Spain Past Saudi Arabia in Style
Lamine Yamal scored his first World Cup goal as Spain dismantled Saudi Arabia 4-0 to seize control of Group H.
Oyarzabal Doubles Down on Spanish Authority
For weeks the question circled like a hawk: would Lamine Yamal arrive at the 2026 World Cup fully fit, or would he be a shadow of the prodigy who lit up Euro 2024? On a steamy Atlanta night, the 17-year-old ended the debate with a 10th-minute slide at the back post that left Saudi Arabia grasping at air. Spain did not just win — they declared. Four goals, maximum control, zero mercy.
Mikel Oyarzabal then took centre stage, scoring twice in three blistering first-half minutes. His first came from a Dani Olmo corner cutback at the 21st minute; his second from a Pedro Porro floated ball three minutes later. By the time Hassan Al Tambakti deflected Marc Cucurella’s effort into his own net early in the second half, the contest was a formality and La Roja had produced Spain’s statement opening win of the tournament.
Spain’s Stats Tell a Dominant Story
Saudi Arabia managed just two shots throughout — a meagre 0.05 expected goals across 90 minutes. Spain registered 11 shots with five on target and an xG of 2.07, numbers that underline the chasm in quality. Yamal’s return from a hamstring scare only amplifies their threat. With Pedri pulling strings in midfield and Oyarzabal clinical in front of goal, Luis de la Fuente’s side look capable of beating anyone in this tournament.
Spain top Group H with authority and enter the knockout stage firing on all cylinders. Yamal’s hunger, Oyarzabal’s composure, and defensive solidity make La Roja the team no one in the last 32 wants to face.
