Lamine Yamal played a pivotal role in Spain’s 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia on Sunday in Atlanta, marking a strong rebound for the European champions after a goalless draw in their World Cup opener against Cape Verde. The 18-year-old Barcelona forward scored just 10 minutes into his first World Cup start, becoming the eighth-youngest goalscorer in tournament history and providing a decisive spark for the Spanish side.

Yamal, who made his senior international debut in 2023 and recently turned 18, had only featured as a substitute in Spain’s opening match. However, coach Luis De la Fuente handed him a starting position against Saudi Arabia, where he quickly demonstrated his impact by finishing a low cross from Mikel Oyarzabal at the far post. This goal eased pressure on Spain, which had struggled offensively in their first match.

Following Yamal’s opener, Spain dominated the early stages of the game. Oyarzabal, who had been criticized for a subdued performance against Cape Verde, responded strongly by assisting Yamal’s goal and scoring twice himself within a three-minute span in the first half. Spain’s control was so comprehensive that De la Fuente substituted both goal scorers at halftime, signaling confidence in the team’s depth.

Shortly after the break, Spain extended its lead further when defender Marc Cucurella’s shot deflected off Saudi Arabia’s Hassan Altambakti for an own goal, marking the eighth own goal of the tournament. Spain maintained their dominance but eased their intensity in the second half, comfortably securing a top position in Group H.

The victory addressed concerns about Spain’s form and offensive cohesion raised by their first match. Yamal’s performance, particularly notable for someone recovering from a hamstring injury, has been widely praised as a sign of the team’s potential. De la Fuente managed Yamal’s minutes carefully to preserve his fitness for the upcoming fixtures.

Spain entered the tournament as one of the favorites, and this result underscored their credentials. While the team had been under pressure to deliver following the unexpected draw with Cape Verde, the comprehensive win, led by the young star, signaled their intent to compete strongly as the tournament progresses.