ATLANTA: Teenage sensation Lamine Yamal stole the spotlight as Spain silenced their critics with a commanding 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia, reigniting their World Cup ambitions in style. Many were questioning whether the Spanish side would find their rhythm after a frustrating 0-0 draw with Cape Verde. They answered those doubts with spectacular style.

The breakthrough came from teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who earned his first start with an early goal that electrified the crowd in Atlanta. The young star displayed the confidence and talent that have made him one of football’s most exciting prospects.

Spain remained the better side and Mikel Oyarzabal took charge of the game. Not only did the forward assist Yamal’s opener, but he also scored twice in three minutes, in the 21st and 24th minutes, to put the game beyond Saudi Arabia’s reach before the break.

Any hopes of a comeback were extinguished shortly after the break when an own goal extended Spain’s advantage, completing a ruthless display from the European giants.

Yamal reflected on watching previous World Cups from his school classroom and described representing Spain on football's biggest stage as a dream come true, said he was proud to be helping on the biggest stage in football. He also praised Oyarzabal to the hilt, saying the experienced forward fully deserved the Man of the Match award.

The comprehensive victory takes Spain to the top of Group H on six points and will boost confidence among the squad. More importantly it is a reminder that Spain are still a serious contender in the race for World Cup glory.

Credit: Independent News Pakistan (INP)