Spain claimed their first win of the 2026 FIFA World Cup in resounding style, with teenage prodigy Lamine Yamal leading them to a decisive 4-0 triumph over Saudi Arabia in a Group H clash.
After featuring only as a substitute in Spain’s frustrating goalless draw against Cape Verde, Yamal was given a starting spot by coach Luis de la Fuente—and he wasted no time making an impact. The 18-year-old broke the deadlock just 10 minutes into the game, arriving at the far post to slot home Mikel Oyarzabal’s precise cross.
Yamal’s goal etched his name into the history books, making him just the second player aged 18 or younger to strike the opening goal in a World Cup match—a rare feat first accomplished by Brazil’s Pele in 1958. His early contribution set the stage for a dominant Spanish performance.
Spain dictated the game with authority and doubled their lead midway through the first half. Oyarzabal pounced on Saudi Arabia’s failure to clear a corner and soon followed up with another goal just three minutes later, finishing from close range to leave no doubt about the outcome before half-time.
Despite Yamal and Oyarzabal being substituted during the break, Spain maintained their momentum in the second half. Their fourth goal came courtesy of a defensive misfortune; goalkeeper Mohammad Al-Owais managed to save Marc Cucurella’s shot, but the ball rebounded off defender Hassan Al Tambakti and into the net.
Saudi Arabia struggled to mount any serious threat, mustering only one shot on target late in the match. Spain, however, continued to press, with Ferran Torres having a goal ruled out for offside in stoppage time. Nonetheless, De la Fuente’s squad showed resolve after their sluggish start, reigniting their World Cup campaign with an emphatic victory.
