2026 World Cup Roundup: Spain Hammer Saudi Arabia, Belgium Stalled by Iran
Summarized and contextualized by DistantNews.
At a glance
- Spain dominated Saudi Arabia with a 4-0 victory in the 2026 World Cup Group H, featuring two goals each from Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo.
- Belgium faced a frustrating 0-0 draw against Iran in Group G, leaving them winless after two matches.
- Spain now leads Group H with four points, while Belgium is winless and behind Iran in Group G on goal difference.
Spain surged to the top of Group H in the 2026 World Cup by decisively defeating Saudi Arabia 4-0. The victory, secured at Atlanta Stadium, saw Brian Brobbey and Cody Gakpo each score twice, propelling Spain to four points from two matches. Lamine Yamal opened the scoring in the 10th minute, followed by Mikel Oyarzabal's brace and an own goal by Saudi defender Hassan Al-Tombakti in the 49th minute. Spain controlled possession throughout the match, limiting Saudi Arabia's opportunities and ensuring a comfortable win.
In contrast, Belgium's struggles continued in Group G with a goalless draw against Iran. Despite dominating possession and creating early chances at Los Angeles Stadium, the Belgian side failed to find the net. Iran had a goal disallowed for offside in the 25th minute, and Belgian goalkeeper Thibaut Courtois made crucial saves to keep the score level.
The match took a turn in the 66th minute when Belgian defender Nathan Ngoy was sent off for a foul on Iran's Mehdi Taremi. With a numerical advantage, Iran pushed forward, but Courtois's saves prevented them from scoring. Belgium remains winless after two games, sitting behind Iran on goal difference in Group G.
Originally published by Tempo. Summarized and contextualized by our editorial team with added local perspective. Read our editorial standards.