Spain crush Saudi Arabia 4-0 as Yamal and Oyarzabal shine at FIFA World Cup 2026

Spain delivered a dominant performance at the FIFA World Cup 2026, sweeping aside Saudi Arabia 4-0 in Group H to record their first victory of the tournament in style. After a disappointing goalless draw against Cape Verde in their opening match, La Roja responded emphatically with a fluid, attacking display built on quick passing and relentless pressure. Teen sensation Lamine Yamal was restored to the starting lineup and made an immediate impact, scoring his first World Cup goal in his first start. The Barcelona winger finished calmly from Mikel Oyarzabal’s low cross, opening the scoring with a precise finish from a tight angle. Yamal later described the moment as a dream come true, noting that he had watched the previous World Cup from school and was now celebrating his breakthrough on football’s biggest stage with his family present in the stands. Oyarzabal then took centre stage, scoring twice in quick succession before the 25th minute to put Spain firmly in control. His first came from close range at the back post, followed shortly by a composed finish that extended the lead. The forward also came close to completing a hat-trick after striking the crossbar following an error in the Saudi defence. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente made an early tactical decision by substituting both Yamal and Oyarzabal at half-time, managing their workload with tougher fixtures ahead. Although Spain eased their intensity in the second half, they continued to dominate possession and territory. Their fourth goal came via an own goal when a rebound from Marc Cucurella’s attempt deflected off Saudi defender Hassan Al Tambakti and into the net. Saudi Arabia struggled to respond throughout the match, failing to create significant chances against a disciplined Spanish defence. Spain briefly thought they had added a fifth goal in stoppage time through Ferran Torres, but VAR ruled it out for offside. The result sends Spain to the top of Group H, while Saudi Arabia remain at the bottom after