“Here is Yamal, here is Spain” - International media hails La Roja’s response

The European champions brushed aside Saudi Arabia, and newspapers across Europe and South America were quick to salute.

Angel Martínez

Update: Jun 22nd, 2026 00:26 EDT

Spain finally found its scoring touch. After the frustrating afternoon of missed chances in the opener against Cape Verde, the European champions rediscovered their sharpness in front of goal, sweeping Saudi Arabia aside 4-0 and putting themselves in a commanding position to reach the World Cup Round of 32. Lamine Yamal opened the scoring, Mikel Oyarzabal added a brace and an own goal by Abdullah Altambakti completed the victory in Atlanta.

La Roja swept away the doubts raised by its debut and reminded everyone why it arrived in North America as one of the tournament favorites. The international media followed the performance closely and responded with a flood of praise, particularly for Yamal, whose display once again placed him at the center of the global conversation. Here is how some of the world’s leading newspapers reacted to Spain’s emphatic victory.

Daily Mail (England)

“Here is Yamal, here is Spain” - International media hails La Roja’s response — Digital front page of The Daily Mail.

“Spain, Lamine’s business.” The British newspaper focused heavily on Yamal’s influence and Spain’s resurgence after the disappointing opener. The teenager’s performance once again reinforced his status as one of the most decisive players in international soccer.

The Sun (England)

"LAM-AZING!“ The tabloid turned to one of its trademark headlines to celebrate Yamal’s display. His age continues to make headlines, but it is his maturity and impact on the biggest stage that have drawn the most admiration.

L’Equipe (France)

“Spain delights us, Lamine Yamal decisive.” France’s leading sports daily highlighted Spain’s comfortable victory over Saudi Arabia and the impact of Yamal, who marked his first World Cup start with a goal. Despite the sporting rivalry between the two nations, the French press had little hesitation in applauding the quality of Spain’s performance.

La Gazzetta dello Sport (Italy)

“Here is Yamal, here is Spain.” Italy’s most influential sports newspaper declared that the European champions had truly arrived at the World Cup. The outlet praised the Barcelona star while also highlighting Oyarzabal’s contribution in a game that left Saudi Arabia overwhelmed.

Corriere dello Sport (Italy)

Yamal and Oyarzabal lead Spain: four-goal display against Saudi Arabia."

The Italian newspaper pointed to the partnership between the young winger and the Real Sociedad forward as the driving force behind the victory. It also emphasized Spain’s response after the disappointment of the opening game.

Bild (Germany)

"Yamal ends Spain’s goal drought."

Germany’s largest newspaper focused on the relief felt by Spain after failing to convert its chances against Cape Verde. This time, the breakthrough came early and the goals followed.

Olé (Argentina)

"Here comes Spain: football show and rout."

Argentina’s leading sports newspaper viewed the performance as a statement. The stumble in the opener appeared forgotten as Spain produced one of the most convincing displays of the tournament so far. The verdict was simple: “They were a steamroller.”

Globoesporte (Brazil)

"Teenage fury: Yamal opens the way in Spain’s rout."

Brazilian media focused on the historical significance of Yamal’s goal. The winger became only the second player after Pelé to score at a World Cup at the age of 18 or younger, adding another remarkable chapter to a career that continues to accelerate.