World Cup 2026 | Spain 4 - 0 Saudi Arabia

Lamine Yamal scored 10 minutes into his first World Cup start

This helped Spain secure their first win of the tournament with a convincing victory over Saudi Arabia.

Author | James Y

Stadium | Atlanta Stadium

The Barcelona teenager had come off the bench in Spain's opening Group H match against Cape Verde, but could not inspire the 2010 champions to victory as they were held to a frustrating goalless draw.

A closer analysis as Spain get off the mark

As expected, the 18-year-old returned to Luis de la Fuente's starting line-up against Saudi Arabia and wasted little time in making an impact.

Mikel Oyarzabal's low cross from the left slipped past Saudi Arabia defender Hassan Al Tambakti and was turned in at the far post by Lamine Yamal, who became only the second player aged 18 or younger after Pele in 1958 to score the opening goal in a World Cup match.

Spain showed little desire to ease off and doubled their lead through Oyarzabal, who swept a low finish beyond goalkeeper Mohammad Al-Owais after Saudi Arabia failed to deal with a corner.

The Real Sociedad forward struck again three minutes later, converting Dani Olmo's flick-on at the far post to all but settle the contest.

Oyarzabal came close to completing his hat-trick with 10 minutes of the first half remaining, but could only hit the crossbar after intercepting Al-Owais' misplaced pass.

Lamine Yamal and Oyarzabal were both withdrawn at half-time, though their departures did little to interrupt Spain's flow as De la Fuente's side continued to dominate after the break.

Al-Owais produced a fine save to keep out Marc Cucurella's powerful effort three minutes into the second half, but the ball rebounded off Al Tambakti and into the net to make it 4-0.

Watch | Highlights from ITV Sport

Spain eased off slightly after that, although half-time substitute Ferran Torres nearly added a fifth when he dragged his shot wide after being sent through on goal.

Abdullah Al Hamdan forced Saudi Arabia's only effort on target with 10 minutes remaining, before Torres had a goal ruled out for offside following a lengthy video assistant referee check deep into stoppage time.