Yamal and Oyarzabal lead Spain to thumping birthday win over Saudi Arabia

Luis de la Fuente wanted a new jumper for his birthday, but his Spain side gave him something far better – a thoroughly dominant 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia that erased any lingering doubts from their tournament opener. After struggling to break down Cape Verde in a frustrating 0-0 draw, La Roja came out firing in Atlanta, putting three goals past their opponents before the first water break. The message was clear: Spain are back to being Spain.

The perfect birthday gift

De la Fuente turned 65 on match day, and his players delivered the ideal present. Unable to find the net in 97 minutes against Cape Verde, Spain needed just ten minutes to unlock the Saudi defense here. Lamine Yamal, making his first start since a hamstring injury in April, swept home a composed finish to set the tone. Mikel Oyarzabal then added two quickfire goals inside the first quarter of an hour, effectively killing the contest before it had even truly begun. By full time, it was 4-0, and the coach could afford to bring on Mikel Merino and Nico Williams for valuable minutes.

Yamal and Oyarzabal shine

Lamine Yamal had said earlier in the tournament that "life is there to be enjoyed," and he certainly enjoyed his return to the starting XI. The 16-year-old winger looked sharp and confident, scoring with a clinical strike that highlighted his immense talent. Mikel Oyarzabal, meanwhile, reminded everyone of his predatory instincts with a brace that showcased his movement and finishing. The Real Sociedad captain was a constant threat, and his goals gave Spain the breathing room they desperately needed after their opening stalemate.

What it means going forward

This emphatic win not only boosts Spain's goal difference but also restores the attacking verve that defines de la Fuente's philosophy. With qualification back in their own hands, the squad's depth has been tested – and passed. The early lead allowed the coach to rotate, giving minutes to key squad players like Merino and Williams, which will be crucial as the knockout stages approach. If Spain can maintain this intensity, they look like serious contenders. For de la Fuente, it was the perfect birthday performance; for the rest of the tournament, it's a warning shot.