Sports

IIE DIGITAL DESK ; June 22: Spain produced a commanding performance to defeat Saudi Arabia 4-0 in their Group H encounter at Atlanta on Sunday night (Indian time), strengthening their position at the top of the group standings.

The Spanish side completely controlled the match, enjoying more than 65 percent possession and creating numerous attacking opportunities. Spain fired 22 shots throughout the game, with eight of them being on target, while Saudi Arabia managed only three attempts, with just one troubling the Spanish goalkeeper.

Spain took the lead in the 10th minute through a brilliant finish from young sensation Lamine Yamal. The goal marked another historic achievement for the talented winger, who became Spain’s second-youngest goalscorer in World Cup history at the age of 18 years and 343 days. The record remains with Gavi, who scored at 18 years and 110 days during the previous edition of the tournament.

Yamal’s goal also added to his impressive international record. The teenager has now scored seven goals and provided 12 assists in just 27 appearances for the Spanish national team, underlining his growing importance in Spain’s attacking setup.

Spain extended their advantage further through Real Sociedad forward Mikel Oyarzabal, who struck twice within a span of just three minutes in the 21st and 24th minutes. His quickfire brace effectively put the match beyond Saudi Arabia’s reach and gave Spain a comfortable 3-0 lead before the halftime break.

The second half began with another setback for Saudi Arabia. While attempting to clear a powerful effort from Spanish defender Marc Cucurella, Saudi defender Hassan Al-Tambakti accidentally turned the ball into his own net, resulting in an own goal that increased Spain’s lead to 4-0.

One victory and one draw from two matches, Spain now sit at the top of the Group H table with four points. Saudi Arabia remain at the bottom with just one point. Uruguay and Cape Verde also have one point each, although both sides have played only one match so far.

Spain will next face Uruguay on Saturday in a crucial group-stage clash, while Cape Verde will take on Saudi Arabia on the same day as the battle for qualification intensifies.