Yamal scores first World Cup goal as Spain routs Saudi Arabia 3-0

Spain asserted dominance over Saudi Arabia with a commanding 3-0 victory in their second match of the 2026 World Cup, taking provisional control of Group H. The match, held at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, saw standout performances from young Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal.

Spain opened the scoring in the 10th minute. Following a midfield recovery, Oyarzabal drove down the left flank and delivered a precise low cross. Lamine Yamal, just 18 years old, met the ball at the far post with a first-time finish, marking his inaugural goal in World Cup history. The lead was extended in the 21st minute by Oyarzabal himself, who received a pass in a dangerous area, combined with Pedri, and finished accurately past goalkeeper Mohammed Al-Owais.

Before halftime, Oyarzabal completed his brace in the 38th minute after a fluid team move. He received a through ball, controlled it inside the box, and slotted a shot across Al-Owais to make it 3-0. With two goals and an assist, Oyarzabal silenced critics who had questioned his performance in the previous match against Cape Verde, where he had minimal attacking involvement.

Statistics from Opta Joe highlighted Oyarzabal's transformation, noting he was the first player since the 1966 World Cup to not touch the ball in the first 30 minutes of a match. However, with his two goals and an assist, he became the second player since 1966 to be involved in three goals (scoring or assisting) within the first 25 minutes of a World Cup game, after Hungary's László Fazekas in 1982. Spain, managed by Luis de la Fuente, controlled possession and created numerous chances, displaying a more potent offense than in their goalless draw against Cape Verde. Saudi Arabia, coached by Georgios Donis, struggled to contain Spain's dynamic play and rarely threatened Spain's goalkeeper Unai Simón.