Spain finally delivered the response their fans were waiting for at World Cup 2026, sweeping aside Saudi Arabia 4-0 in a dominant Group H performance inspired by the electric return of Lamine Yamal.
After a frustrating 0-0 draw against Cape Verde in their opening match, pressure had quickly begun to build around Luis de la Fuente’s side. Spain had controlled possession in that game but lacked urgency, penetration and cutting edge in the final third.
Against Saudi Arabia, everything changed.
Spain played with far greater speed, purpose and aggression from the opening whistle. The biggest spark came from Yamal, who returned to the starting line-up and immediately reminded the world why he is regarded as one of football’s brightest young stars.
The Barcelona teenager needed only 10 minutes to make his mark. After a sharp Spanish attack, Yamal found the net to score his first World Cup goal, giving La Roja the early breakthrough they desperately needed.
That goal transformed the mood completely. Spain looked lighter, sharper and more confident, while Saudi Arabia were forced deeper and deeper into their own half.
Mikel Oyarzabal then took over before half-time, scoring twice in quick succession to put Spain firmly in control. His movement, finishing and link-up play gave Saudi Arabia’s defence constant problems and ensured the match was effectively decided before the break.
Yamal was withdrawn at half-time as Spain managed his return carefully, but his work had already been done. His goal, movement and fearless energy had set the tone for the entire performance.
Early in the second half, Spain added a fourth when Saudi defender Hassan Altambakti turned the ball into his own net, completing a miserable night for the Asian side.
From there, Spain controlled the tempo and avoided unnecessary risk. With the game safe, De la Fuente was able to rotate, protect key players and preserve energy for the decisive clash with Uruguay.
The 4-0 win lifts Spain to four points from two matches and puts them back in control of their World Cup campaign. More importantly, it restores belief.
This was not just a victory. It was a message.
After being questioned, Spain answered with power. And with Yamal back among the goals, La Roja suddenly look dangerous again.
