Yamal makes World Cup history as Spain thrash Saudi Arabia 4-0

Lamine Yamal marked his first FIFA World Cup start with a goal as Spain cruised to a commanding 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in Atlanta, securing their first win of the tournament and moving to the top of Group H.

The Barcelona sensation, who came off the bench in Spain’s frustrating 0-0 draw against Cape Verde in their opening match, needed just 10 minutes to make his mark after being handed a starting role by coach Luis de la Fuente.

Yamal Ends Spain’s Goal Drought

Making his first start in two months following a hamstring injury, Yamal ended Spain’s long wait for a World Cup goal when he tapped home from close range to open the scoring.

Oyarzabal Double Puts Spain in Control

Spain quickly took control of the contest, with Mikel Oyarzabal netting twice to give La Roja a commanding 3-0 lead inside 24 minutes.

De la Fuente Demands More Improvement

De la Fuente continued to carefully manage the teenager’s workload by withdrawing him at half-time, while an own goal from Hassan Al Tambakti completed the rout in the second half.

“We had to recover good feelings and correct a few things from the last game,” De la Fuente said after the match.

“But we need to keep improving if we want to achieve our target of reaching the final on July 19.”

Spain Eye Group H Top Spot

Spain entered the match under pressure after being held by World Cup debutants Cape Verde despite dominating possession. That result highlighted the importance of Yamal to their hopes of lifting a second World Cup title.

The 18-year-old repaid his coach’s faith almost immediately. Oyarzabal’s low cross from the left evaded Saudi Arabia’s defence before Yamal arrived at the far post to convert.

In doing so, he became only the second player aged 18 or younger to score the opening goal in a World Cup match, following the feat achieved by Pele in 1958.

The victory leaves Spain top of Group H with four points from two matches and full of confidence ahead of a decisive clash with Uruguay.

Spain conclude their group-stage campaign against Uruguay in Guadalajara, while Saudi Arabia face Cape Verde in Houston. Both matches are scheduled for June 27.