European champions Spain delivered a commanding performance to defeat Saudi Arabia 4-0 in their Group H clash at the FIFA World Cup 2026, reigniting their campaign after a disappointing opening draw.
Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal starred for Spain, scoring his first-ever FIFA World Cup goal and helping his side secure a crucial victory. The win lifts Spain to four points from two matches, while Saudi Arabia remain on one point.
Lamine Yamal Opens the Floodgates
Spain started brightly and took the lead in the 10th minute through Yamal. The young winger made a perfectly timed run to meet a low cross from Mikel Oyarzabal and slid the ball into the net at the far post.
The goal settled Spain, who quickly gained control of possession and began creating chances with confidence and precision.
Oyarzabal Scores Twice Before Half-Time
After struggling in Spain’s opening match, Oyarzabal responded in style with two goals in three minutes.
The first came after a corner kick caused confusion inside the Saudi penalty area. Defender Aymeric Laporte headed the ball down for Oyarzabal, who bundled it over the line.
Moments later, Spain produced one of the finest moves of the game. A flowing team attack involving Pedro Porro, Marc Cucurella and Dani Olmo ended with Oyarzabal volleying home from close range to make it 3-0 before the break.
Own Goal Seals Saudi Arabia’s Misery
Spain continued to dominate after halftime despite making changes to rest key players.
The fourth goal arrived when Saudi Arabia defender Hassan Altambakti inadvertently turned the ball into his own net following a goalmouth scramble from a corner kick.
While Spain eased their intensity in the closing stages, they still controlled the match comfortably and prevented Saudi Arabia from creating meaningful opportunities.
Spain Regain Momentum in Group H
The emphatic victory provides a major confidence boost for coach Luis de la Fuente, who celebrated his 65th birthday with a memorable win.
More importantly, Spain rediscovered the attacking fluency that made them one of the tournament favourites. Yamal’s creativity and Oyarzabal’s finishing offered encouraging signs as the team looks ahead to the knockout stages.
Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, face a difficult challenge in their remaining group fixtures if they hope to keep their World Cup dreams alive.
Match Summary: Spain vs Saudi Arabia
- Result: Spain 4-0 Saudi Arabia
- Goalscorers: Lamine Yamal (10′), Mikel Oyarzabal (29′, 32′), Hassan Altambakti (Own Goal, 48′)
- Competition: FIFA World Cup 2026
- Venue: Atlanta Stadium
- Group: Group H
Spain’s dominant display sends a strong message to the rest of the tournament, with Yamal and Oyarzabal leading the charge in one of their most complete performances of FIFA World Cup 2026 so far.
