Oyarzabal responds in style as Spain crush Saudi Arabia with four-goal surge

ATLANTA — A week after enduring one of the most difficult moments of his international career, Mikel Oyarzabal answered in the loudest possible way.

The Spanish forward transformed a disappointing World Cup debut into a historic performance on Sunday, scoring twice and creating another goal as Spain stormed past Saudi Arabia 4-0 at Atlanta Stadium.

Oyarzabal’s display came just days after his heavily criticized opening match, where he became the first player since 1966 to fail to register a touch during the first 30 minutes of a World Cup appearance.

This time, however, the 29-year-old was at the center of everything.

His two goals and assist made him only the second player in World Cup history to score or create three goals within the opening 25 minutes of a match, joining Hungary’s László Fazekas, who achieved the feat in 1982.

Spain’s attack explodes as Oyarzabal sets the tone

The breakthrough arrived in the 10th minute when Oyarzabal delivered a perfectly weighted cross into the box for teenage sensation Lamine Yamal, who finished to give Spain an early advantage.

The forward then took over.

Three minutes after setting up the opener, Oyarzabal scored his first goal of the match in the 21st minute.

Just moments later, in the 24th minute, he struck again to push Spain ahead 3-0 before halftime and put the match firmly under Spanish control.

In only 45 minutes on the field, Oyarzabal recorded five shots, with three finding the target.

De La Fuente praises impact of Spain’s leading man

Spain coach Luis De La Fuente highlighted the importance of Oyarzabal’s contribution, describing his influence as unmatched.

“The impact Mikel has on the team is massive, probably bigger than any other player could have in the world,” De La Fuente said.

“I’m convinced that he’s a footballer that can really make history in Spanish football. His numbers are crazy, so I do celebrate his performance and, hopefully, we will be able to value him properly.”

The manager’s praise reflected more than just statistics, it was recognition of Oyarzabal’s ability to connect Spain’s attack and provide leadership during a crucial tournament moment.

Oyarzabal keeps focus on team rather than records

Despite entering the record books, Oyarzabal dismissed the personal milestones and emphasized the importance of helping Spain recover.

“In the end, it’s an anecdote,” Oyarzabal said after the match. “I don’t give any importance to it. It is what it is. I’m happy to have scored, to have helped the team. One way or another, I’m always trying to do what’s best for the team.”

The forward insisted the victory mattered more than individual recognition.

Spain entered the match determined to respond after a disappointing opening performance, and Oyarzabal said the team used that setback as motivation.

“When you don’t do things well, when things don’t go your way, you criticise yourself, you look internally to try to improve,” he said.

“We knew we could do much better than the other day. We were looking forward to turning it around. It was very important to start with the right foot, and that’s what happened.”

Spain rediscover confidence on World Cup stage

The victory provided Spain with exactly the response they wanted.

After questions emerged following their opening display, the Spanish attack returned with energy, creativity, and ruthless finishing.

At the heart of it all was Oyarzabal, a player who moved from criticism to celebration in the space of one unforgettable afternoon.

Spain’s message to the rest of the tournament was clear: they remain a dangerous force, and their leading performers are ready to deliver when it matters most.