Spain make statement with 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia as Yamal shines
Lamine Yamal inspires a fast start as the European champions answer an opening draw, strengthening their case as World Cup favourites.
Henry Caldwell
Football Writer ·

Spain's 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia in Group H changed the tone around their World Cup campaign, with Lamine Yamal helping to inspire a fast start.
The European champions responded emphatically to an opening draw with Cape Verde, reasserting themselves as one of the tournament's standout sides.
A statement performance
The result strengthened the case for Spain as favourites and put the focus on their high pressing, attacking width and renewed confidence after a sluggish opener.
What happens next
With momentum restored, Spain will look to carry the same intensity into the knockout phase, where their blend of youth and control could prove decisive.
Source: This summary is based on reporting by Sky Sports. The NE Times aggregates and rewrites news for readability; please refer to the original for the full report.
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