Spain’s 18‑year‑old Lamine Yamal stole the spotlight in Atlanta, scoring the first goal in a 4‑0 rout of Saudi Arabia. His debut came after a 19‑minute cameo against Cape Verde and a hamstring recovery.

Yamal’s impact felt before he touched the ball; fans marched in his name and the stadium roared when his face lit the screen. He finished the first half with a decisive header, cementing Spain’s bold, fast attack.

The teenager’s goal made him the seventh player to score before 19 at a World Cup and only the second 18‑year‑old to open a match, a feat last seen by 1958’s Pele. Yamal’s performance earned praise from former stars and positioned him as the team’s emerging leader.

Spain will monitor his fitness closely with one group game left. If he stays healthy, Yamal could decide Spain’s fate in the tournament, potentially steering them toward the final.