Spain delivered a statement performance at the 2026 FIFA World Cup, thrashing Saudi Arabia 4-0 on Sunday to secure their first victory of the tournament and move to the top of Group H.
Facing intense scrutiny after a shock goalless draw against Cape Verde in their opening match, La Roja responded in style with a dominant display of attacking football, spearheaded by teenage sensation Lamine Yamal and forward Mikel Oyarzabal.
Yamal, restored to the starting lineup after an impressive substitute appearance in Spain’s opener, opened the scoring with his first-ever World Cup goal. The youngster converted Oyarzabal’s low cross from a tight angle, marking a memorable first World Cup start.
Speaking after the match, Yamal reflected on the achievement, saying it was a dream come true to score on football’s biggest stage with his family watching from the stands.
Spain quickly tightened their grip on the contest as Oyarzabal struck twice before the first hydration break. His first goal came from close range at the back post, while his second was a composed finish just two minutes later.
The Real Sociedad forward nearly completed a hat-trick after capitalising on a misplaced back pass from Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais, but his first-time effort crashed against the crossbar.
With Spain firmly in control, head coach Luis de la Fuente, celebrating his 65th birthday, withdrew both Yamal and Oyarzabal at half-time to preserve key players for tougher tests ahead.
Although Spain eased off after the break, they continued to dominate possession and chances. Their fourth goal arrived through an unfortunate own goal by Hassan Al Tambakti. Goalkeeper Al Owais initially denied Marc Cucurella’s effort from a corner, but the rebound struck the Saudi defender and rolled into the net.
Spain thought they had added a fifth goal deep into stoppage time when Ferran Torres finished from a Fabian Ruiz cross.
However, a lengthy VAR review ruled the goal out for offside.
The convincing victory lifts Spain to the summit of Group H, while Saudi Arabia remain rooted to the bottom of the standings.
(Sky Sports)
