Historic Yamal goal puts Spain near World Cup Round of 32

Lamine Yamal experienced an unforgettable night as his goal helped Spain secure a commanding 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in their second Group H match of the 2026 World Cup. The 18-year-old Barcelona winger not only opened the scoring but also etched his name into the history books of the World Cup finals.

Yamal netted the opening goal in the 10th minute, marking his first World Cup goal. Following his strike, Mikel Oyarzabal added two quick goals in the 21st and 24th minutes. Spain's dominance was further cemented when Saudi Arabia defender Hassan Al-Tambakti scored an own goal early in the second half, completing the resounding 4-0 win.

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I always dreamed of playing in the World Cup.

For Yamal, the goal held profound personal significance, fulfilling a childhood dream. He recalled watching the World Cup from a classroom just four years prior and now being a key figure in his national team's performance on the world's biggest football stage. "I always dreamed of playing in the World Cup," Yamal told FIFA, expressing his joy at scoring in his first start, especially with his family present in the stands.

The goal against Saudi Arabia also placed Yamal among the youngest scorers in World Cup history. At 18 years and 343 days old, he ranks eighth on the all-time list. While the record is held by Brazilian legend Pelé at 17 years and 239 days, Yamal is in esteemed company, following players like Manuel Rosas, Gavi, Ibrahim Mbaye, Michael Owen, Nicolae Kovacs, and Dmitri Sychev. Within the Spanish team, Yamal is the second youngest scorer, with teammate Gavi holding the record at 18 years and 110 days from the 2022 World Cup. Yamal considered the decisive win over Saudi Arabia an ideal response after Spain's goalless draw against Cape Verde in their opening match, stating it served as a moment for reflection and a call for more aggressive and effective play. With four points from two games, Spain is in a strong position to qualify for the round of 32.

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The first game was not our real performance.