Spain underlined their status as one of the favourites for the FIFA World Cup 2026 with a commanding 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, Georgia, on Sunday. A first-half masterclass from Luis de la Fuente's side saw them race into a three-goal lead before an own goal shortly after halftime completed a dominant display that strengthened their position in Group G. Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal set the tone early, opening the scoring in the 10th minute after Spain's relentless pressure pinned Saudi Arabia deep inside their own half. The Barcelona winger, one of the tournament's brightest young stars, showed composure beyond his years as he found the back of the net to hand La Roja an early advantage. Spain doubled their lead 11 minutes later through Mikel Oyarzabal. The Real Sociedad forward finished off a flowing attacking move in the 21st minute after Saudi Arabia struggled to contain Spain's intricate passing and movement around the penalty area. Before the Saudis could regroup, Oyarzabal struck again just three minutes later. The striker capitalised on another defensive lapse to complete his brace in the 24th minute, putting Spain firmly in control before the half-hour mark. With a comfortable 3-0 lead, Spain dictated possession for the remainder of the first half, leaving Saudi Arabia chasing shadows as the Europeans showcased the technical quality that has long been their trademark. Any hopes of a Saudi Arabian comeback disappeared shortly after the restart when defender Hassan Al-Tombakti inadvertently turned the ball into his own net in the 49th minute while attempting to deal with a dangerous Spanish attack. The own goal extended Spain's advantage to 4-0 and effectively ended the contest as a competitive affair. Despite easing off the intensity in the latter stages, Spain continued to dominate possession and create chances, while Saudi Arabia struggled to mount any meaningful response against a disciplined Spanish defence. The result boosts Spain's hopes of securing qualification from Group G, where every point is becoming increasingly valuable as the tournament enters its decisive stages. The emphatic victory also serves as a warning to their rivals that Spain possess both the attacking firepower and tactical discipline needed to challenge for a second World Cup title. For Saudi Arabia, the heavy defeat leaves them with work to do in their remaining group matches if they are to keep alive their hopes of reaching the knockout rounds. Spain coach Luis de la Fuente will be particularly encouraged by the performances of Oyarzabal and Yamal, whose goals highlighted the blend of experience and youthful talent within the squad. Having scored four goals without reply and controlled large portions of the match, Spain emerged from Atlanta with maximum points and renewed confidence as they continue their quest for World Cup glory.
