Spain opened Group H with a convincing 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia, and 18‑year‑old Lamine Yamal stole the headlines. The Barcelona winger scored his first World Cup goal ten minutes in, slipping onto the far post after an Oyarzabal cross. Coach Luis de la Fuente praised the teenager as a “genius,” while noting his raw desire needed tempering.

De la Fuente reshaped the lineup, dropping Ferran Torres, Marcos Llorente, Fabián Ruiz and Gavi for Pedro Porro, Dani Olmo and Baena alongside Yamal. The midfield pivot shifted to Rodri and Pedri, allowing Pedri to sit deeper and dictate tempo. Spain dominated possession at 66.6%, created four clear‑cut chances and posted an expected‑goals tally of 2.85 in the first half.

Oyarzabal seized the spotlight, providing the assist for Yamal and netting a brace within three minutes, bringing the score to 3-0 before halftime. Both he and Yamal were withdrawn at the break, having fulfilled their roles. The win restores Spain to status after a sluggish 0-0 draw with Cape Verde, setting up a clash with Uruguay. It gives de la Fuente flexibility for next round.