Spain responded to their disappointing opening match in perfect fashion with a commanding 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia to take control of their World Cup campaign.
Lamine Yamal marked his first start of the tournament with an early goal, while Mikel Oyarzabal rediscovered his best form by scoring twice before halftime. An unfortunate own goal from Hassan Al-Tambakti completed a dominant afternoon for Luis de la Fuente’s side.
Spain Player Ratings
Goalkeeper
Unai Simon – 6/10
Had a comfortable afternoon with very little work to do as Spain controlled possession from start to finish.
Defenders
Pedro Porro – 8/10 ⭐
Outstanding on the right flank. Constantly supported the attack, created several dangerous chances and looked increasingly confident throughout the match. One of Spain’s standout performers.
Pau Cubarsi – 7/10
Calm and composed whenever Saudi Arabia attempted to break forward.
Aymeric Laporte – 8/10
Commanded the defensive line with authority and rarely allowed the opposition any clear opportunities.
Marc Cucurella – 7/10
Continued his impressive World Cup form. Very active down the left side and was unfortunate not to score after forcing the own goal that sealed the victory.
Midfielders
Rodri – 8/10 ⭐
The heartbeat of Spain’s midfield once again. Controlled possession, dictated the tempo and constantly recycled the ball with intelligence.
Pedri – 7/10
Linked midfield and attack effectively while helping Spain maintain complete control.
Dani Olmo – 7/10
Worked tirelessly between the lines and helped create space for Spain’s front three.
Forwards
Lamine Yamal – 9/10 ⭐ Man of the Match
Made an instant impact after returning to the starting lineup. Opened the scoring inside ten minutes and caused Saudi Arabia constant problems with his pace, creativity and direct running before being rested at halftime.
Mikel Oyarzabal – 9/10
Responded brilliantly after criticism following Spain’s opening match. Assisted Yamal’s goal before scoring twice himself in an outstanding first-half display.
Alex Baena – 7/10
A lively performance that provided balance on the left and helped stretch the Saudi defence.
Substitutes
Yeremy Pino – 6/10
Added fresh energy during the second half.
Ferran Torres – 6/10
Worked hard after coming on but had limited opportunities.
Mikel Merino – 6/10
Helped Spain comfortably see out the result.
Nico Williams – 6/10
Showed flashes of pace during his cameo.
Fabian Ruiz – N/R
Played too few minutes for a rating.
Saudi Arabia Player Ratings
Goalkeeper
Mohammed Al-Owais – 5/10
Made several saves but received little protection from the defence.
Defenders
Saud Abdulhamid – 5/10
Struggled against Spain’s constant attacks.
Abdulelah Al-Amri – 5/10
Found it difficult to cope with Spain’s movement inside the box.
Ali Lajami – 6/10
One of the better defenders despite the heavy defeat.
Hassan Al-Tambakti – 4/10
Endured a difficult afternoon that ended with an unfortunate own goal. Constantly came under pressure from Spain’s attackers.
Moteb Al-Harbi – 5/10
Worked hard but offered little resistance defensively.
Midfielders
Musab Al-Juwayr – 5/10
Unable to influence the game.
Abdullah Al-Khaibari – 5/10
Spent most of the match chasing the ball.
Nasser Al-Dawsari – 6/10
Showed determination despite Spain’s dominance.
Salem Al-Dawsari – 6/10
Saudi Arabia’s main attacking outlet but rarely received support.
Forward
Firas Al-Buraikan – 5/10
Isolated throughout and created very little.
Substitutes
Mohammed Kanno – 6/10
Added some stability after coming on.
Fahad Al-Hamdan – 6/10
Worked hard without creating clear opportunities.
Alaa Al-Hajji – 6/10
Brought fresh legs in midfield.
Mohammed Abu Al-Shamat – 6/10
Showed effort late in the match.
Khalid Al-Ghannam – N/R
Not on the pitch long enough for a rating.
Final Verdict
Spain delivered exactly the response expected after their slow start to the tournament. Lamine Yamal immediately reminded everyone why he is regarded as one of the brightest young talents in world football, while Mikel Oyarzabal’s clinical display helped La Roja cruise to a convincing victory.
Saudi Arabia struggled to deal with Spain’s technical quality and relentless movement, leaving themselves with plenty to do heading into the final round of Group H fixtures.
