Spain's Swift Redemption: From Cape Verde Shock to Saudi Arabia Rout - What Changed for La Roja?

Just six days after a humbling 0-0 draw against World Cup debutants Cabo Verde, Spain delivered a commanding 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in Atlanta on Sunday, June 21.

It was the Spanish armada all over the Saudi boys who dismantled them since the first whistle, as the likes of Lamine Yamal and Mikel Oyarzabal glittered in style.

Against Cabo Verde, Spain dominated with 74% possession, 27 shots (7 on target), 19 chances created, and over 730 passes - yet failed to score. Cabo Verde goalkeeper Vozinha made seven crucial saves in a heroic display, while the island nation parked the bus effectively. Spain looked slow and predictable, with Lamine Yamal and Nico Williams only entering as substitutes due to fitness concerns. De la Fuente admitted a lack of “finesse, rhythm, freshness, and intensity.”

Lamine Yamal Effect

For the Saudi Arabia clash, De la Fuente made targeted changes. He started Lamine Yamal on the right wing, introduced Dani Olmo in attacking midfield, brought in Álex Baena, and shifted to a more fluid setup with Pedri deeper alongside Rodri. Pedro Porro featured at right-back. These adjustments injected pace, width, and quicker transitions into a 4-2-3-1 or similar shape.

The impact was instant. Yamal scored his first World Cup goal in the 10th minute, sliding home from close range after Oyarzabal’s assist. Oyarzabal added a quick brace (21' and 24'), exploiting space behind a disjointed Saudi defense. An own goal by Hassan Al-Tambakti (49') made it 4-0, sealing a dominant performance (Spain’s xG around 2.85 vs Saudi’s 0.14). Spain showed higher tempo, more direct play, and clinical edge.

Spain were more Clinical

La Roja were also excellent when it came to converting chances into goals. Against Cabo Verde, they had 51 touches in the opposition box and had an expected goals (xG) of 2.18. Against Saudi Arabia, they had fewer touches (36), but an elevated xG of 2.85. Spain had 27 shots against Cabo Verde, compared to just 22 against Saudi Arabia - but they scored four goals.