Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has hailed Mikel Oyarzabal's performance in Spain's 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia at the ongoing FIFA World Cup 2026, stating that the Real Sociedad star can build an "exceptional legacy" in Spanish football. The win, which took place in Zapopan, Mexico, on June 24, 2026, came after a goalless draw with debutants Cape Verde in Spain's opening group stage match.
Oyarzabal's Stellar Performance
Oyarzabal scored two goals and provided an assist within the first 24 minutes of the match, making him the first player to achieve this feat in such a short time at the World Cup. His contributions, alongside an opening goal from superstar Lamine Yamal, secured a dominant win for Spain. Despite the presence of stars like Nico Williams, Pedri, and Rodri in the attack, Oyarzabal made the most significant impact.
De la Fuente expressed no surprise at Oyarzabal's performance, as quoted by FIFA: "I do not know anyone who underestimates him. Anyone who understands football values him enormously. For some people, the impact he has may seem small, but here we know just how significant it is. The other day, he went nearly 30 minutes without touching the ball, and today, he became the first player to score two goals and provide an assist in just 24 minutes. We have to appreciate Mikel. He can build an exceptional legacy in Spanish football."
Other Key Performers
Dani Olmo also impressed with 34 successful passes and a 92% accuracy rate. De la Fuente rated him as "one of the best players in the world at operating between the lines," adding, "He is incredibly effective in those situations." Alex Baena (Atletico Madrid) and Mikel Merino (Arsenal) were also highlighted. De la Fuente praised Baena for providing width and play through the middle, saying, "He has tremendous quality and a fantastic shot. He is different, but at the same time perfectly suited to our way of playing." He called Merino a "rock," noting that the midfielder played in the second half despite not being at his best physically. "He told me he was ready. If the game had unfolded differently, we probably would have needed him even more," de la Fuente added.
Team Depth and Confidence
After the win, Baena emphasized that even lesser-celebrated players are fully appreciated within the squad. "Maybe we don't receive the same worldwide attention, but any player in the Spain squad would start for any other national team in the world," he said. "We know how good we are, the coaching staff know it too, and that's what matters most." Baena played a key role in Spain's first two goals by Yamal and Oyarzabal, and he expressed gratitude for the opportunity to help the team. "I am always grateful when I can help the team, whatever the situation. I think I played well, but the most important thing is that the team won and can keep moving forward," he said.
Upcoming Matches
Spain's final group stage match will be against Uruguay on June 26 in Guadalajara, Mexico. The team aims to build on their momentum after the convincing win over Saudi Arabia.
