Spain Back on Track with Win Over Saudi Arabia

Monday, June 22, 2026

Spain defeated Saudi Arabia 4-0 in their Group H match at the Atlanta Stadium, with standout performances from teenager Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal, who scored twice. The win boosted Spain to four points and demonstrated a strong turnaround after a scoreless first game, increasing their chances of advancing in the tournament.

Spain secured a commanding 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in their Group H match on Sunday at Atlanta Stadium, rebounding from a lackluster World Cup opener. The win lifted Spain to four points in the group standings, while Saudi Arabia remained with one point after two matches.

The European champions took control early, with 17-year-old Lamine Yamal opening the scoring in the 10th minute. Yamal’s lively performance, notable given his limited recent playing time, energized the Spanish side. His deft sliding finish came after a precise cross from Mikel Oyarzabal, who was instrumental throughout the match.

Oyarzabal, who had struggled in Spain’s opening game with Cape Verde, redeemed himself by scoring twice before halftime. The first came shortly after a corner kick that Dani Olmo delivered into the box, where Aymeric Laporte’s header found Oyarzabal, who powered the ball into the net. Moments later, Spain executed a fluid team move: Pedro Porro's chipped pass connected with Marc Cucurella, whose headed ball set up Olmo to assist Oyarzabal again, who volleyed the ball home.

Spain’s dominance was evident from the start, as they repeatedly breached the Saudi defense with ease. After halftime, an own goal from Saudi defender Hassan Altambakti extended Spain’s lead. The goal came off a corner kick when a shot by Cucurella was blocked but deflected into the net by Altambakti.

Following these goals, Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente, who celebrated his 65th birthday that day, made substitutions to rest key players, including Yamal and Oyarzabal. Despite easing their pressure, the Spanish maintained control and continued to create scoring opportunities.

Saudi Arabia, who drew their first match 1-1 against Uruguay, struggled to mount a response against this resurgent Spanish team. The victory marked a significant improvement in Spain’s form after a goalless draw in their opening fixture.

Later on Sunday, the other Group H match between Cape Verde and Uruguay was scheduled to take place in Miami, as both teams sought to improve their positions in the group standings.