Spain outclass Saudi Arabia

TDT | Manama

Email: mail@newsofbahrain.com

Spain delivered a statement performance in Group H of the FIFA World Cup 2026 yesterday, sweeping aside Saudi Arabia 4–0 at Atlanta Stadium to restore momentum after a frustrating opening draw.

The two-time world champions and reigning European champions, led by coach Luis de la Fuente, bounced back emphatically from their goalless opener against debutants Cape Verde. Saudi Arabia, managed by Georgios Donis, arrived under pressure after a 1–1 draw with Uruguay but were quickly overwhelmed by La Roja’s intensity from the first whistle.

The Spaniards struck first in the 10th minute through teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who continues to make his mark on the global stage in his first World Cup start.

The move started on the left flank, with Mikel Oyarzabal driving forward and delivering a low cross across goal for Lamine Yamal to arrive at the back post and finish clinically from close range, giving Spain a deserved early lead and energising their traveling support.

Spain doubled their advantage ten minutes later in chaotic fashion. Following a corner, the ball dropped into a crowded penalty area where Dani Olmo flicked it into the danger zone. Aymeric Laporte then nodded the ball to Mikel Oyarzabal, who turned it home from close range to make it 2–0.

Just three minutes later, the Real Sociedad forward struck again. A flowing move saw Marc Cucurella cushion a diagonal cross before Dani Olmo headed it into his path. Oyarzabal reacted quickest to finish from close range, completing his brace and putting Spain 3–0 up inside half an hour.

By half-time, Spain were in complete control, having turned their frustration from the Cape Verde draw into a dominant attacking showcase.

The second half brought more punishment for the Green Falcons, as Spain added a fourth goal in the 49th minute. A corner delivered by Alex Baena caused panic in the box, with Cucurella volleying goalward from close range.

Saudi goalkeeper Mohammed Al Owais made an initial save, but the rebound struck defender Hassan Al Tambakti and deflected into the net for an unfortunate own goal.

Spain thought they had added a fifth in stoppage time when Ferran Torres tapped home after another slick attacking sequence. However, after a lengthy VAR review, the goal was ruled out for offside, sparing Saudi Arabia further embarrassment on the scoreline.

The final whistle confirmed a ruthless 4–0 victory for the Spaniards, who looked far more like their usual clinical selves after a subdued opening match.

For Saudi Arabia, it was a difficult night against elite opposition; defensive lapses and Spain’s relentless pressing proved too much to handle.

Spain now turn their attention to securing qualification against Uruguay on Saturday at 3am (Bahrain time), while Saudi Arabia must regroup quickly to keep their World Cup hopes alive as they face Cape Verde at the same time.