Lamine Yamal poised for first start as Spain faces Saudi Arabia
Following a lackluster World Cup 2026 opener, Spain is expected to start Lamine Yamal against Saudi Arabia as he returns from injury.
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Spain is looking to reset its 2026 World Cup campaign after a frustrating opening 0-0 draw against Cape Verde. As the team prepares for Sunday’s clash against Saudi Arabia, all eyes are on Lamine Yamal, who is expected to be included in the starting lineup.
The Barcelona prodigy has been nursing a left thigh injury sustained on April 22, initially intended to be managed carefully throughout the group stage. However, the lack of offensive threat shown in the opener has prompted a change in plans. Yamal’s substitute appearance against Cape Verde provided the audacity and dribbling ability the team previously lacked.
He is a special player, a distinct profile from those who were on the pitch, and that changes what opponents do. This imbalance allows other players to have more time and space elsewhere on the pitch. Mikel Merino
While manager Luis de la Fuente has stopped short of confirming the lineup, Yamal’s training intensity and physical progress suggest he is ready to shoulder the responsibility. The 19-year-old admits he is still in an adaptation phase but is eager to make his mark on the tournament.