The European champions delivered a resounding performance, securing a dominant 4-0 victory (3-0 at halftime) against Saudi Arabia in Atlanta. This win marked a significant step towards the knockout stage and provided a birthday gift for national coach Luis de la Fuente, following a disappointing goalless draw against Cape Verde in their opening match.
Lamine Yamal Substituted at Halftime
After days of doubt and criticism, the Spanish team responded fittingly. From the first minute, they overwhelmed their helpless opponents, emphatically demonstrating their status as strong contenders for the World Cup title.
Lamine Yamal (10th minute), whose return to the starting lineup was eagerly awaited, and Mikel Oyarzabal (21st, 24th), who had an unlucky outing in the previous game, quickly established clear dominance.
Even without Yamal, who was substituted at halftime, Spain maintained firm control of the match. Marc Cucurella’s effort led to an own goal by Hassan Al-Tambakti (49th minute).
Saudi Arabia Powerless Against a Focused Spanish Team
The question of whether Yamal would start or only feature as a substitute was a major talking point for the Spanish camp, especially given his recent recovery from a thigh injury. The 18-year-old, starting for the first time since April, dispelled all doubts from the outset.
In the very first minute, he skillfully outmaneuvered several defenders with an outstanding dribble, forcing Saudi Arabia to work hard to clear his cross.
However, the underdogs, who had managed a 1-1 draw against Uruguay in their opener, found no respite at any point. Wave after wave of attacks crashed towards their goal, and they had no answer for the skillful play of Yamal, Dani Olmo, and Oyarzabal.
Yamal Opens the Scoring, an Own Goal Seals the Deal
Yamal eventually broke the deadlock for Spain with the opening goal: he forced a sharp cross over the line. This was followed swiftly by two quick goals from Oyarzabal. Even the mandatory hydration break did not alter the game’s dynamic; Spain continued to dominate.
Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais saved a shot from Cucurella, but the ball ultimately deflected off Al-Tambakti’s knee and into the net.
Spain will face a sterner test in their final Group H match against Uruguay on Saturday. Saudi Arabia, who will play Cape Verde later on Saturday, ultimately proved to be a less challenging opponent.
This allowed de la Fuente, under whom Spain has now gone 32 consecutive games without a loss, to rest Yamal. Oyarzabal was also substituted by the coach, and later, Nico Williams was given some playing time. These substitutions did not diminish Spain’s dominance; they did not concede any clear chances until the end.
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