Lamine Yamal marked his first World Cup start with a goal as Spain produced a dominant 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia to secure qualification for the knockout stage.
The Barcelona teenager struck 10 minutes into the contest, finishing off a low cross from Mikel Oyarzabal to give Spain an early lead and set the tone for a one-sided encounter.
Yamal, who had come off the bench in Spain’s opening Group H draw against Cape Verde, became only the second player aged 18 or younger—after Pele in 1958—to score the opening goal in a World Cup match.
Spain doubled their advantage in the 21st minute through Oyarzabal, who reacted quickest after Saudi Arabia failed to clear a corner, slotting low past goalkeeper Mohammad Al-Owais.
The Real Sociedad forward struck again just three minutes later, calmly finishing at the far post after a clever flick from Dani Olmo to put Spain firmly in control before the half-hour mark.
Saudi Arabia struggled to contain Spain’s relentless attacking pressure, and Oyarzabal nearly completed a first-half hat-trick when he rattled the crossbar following an error from Al-Owais.
Spain continued their dominance after the break and extended their lead in the 49th minute when Marc Cucurella’s powerful effort deflected off defender Hassan Al Tambakti and into the net for the fourth goal.
With the result beyond doubt, Spain eased off slightly but still created chances, with Ferran Torres and Dani Olmo both threatening to add to the scoreline.
Saudi Arabia’s only shot on target came late in the second half through Abdullah Al Hamdan, but it failed to trouble the Spanish defence.
The result sees Spain move to the top of Group H and secure passage into the knockout stage with a game to spare, while Saudi Arabia remain with work to do to salvage their campaign.
Spain will conclude their group fixtures against Uruguay, while Saudi Arabia face Cape Verde in their final group match.
(The Whistler)
