Group stage · Group H · #37
Spain v Saudi Arabia
Mercedes-Benz Stadium, Atlanta, Georgia
The goals, minute by minute
- 10'Lamine YamalGoal · 1-0
- 21'Mikel OyarzabalGoal · 2-0
- 24'Mikel OyarzabalGoal · 3-0
- 49'Hassan Al-TambaktiOwn goal · 4-0
The preview
Written before the match. We've left it as it was, even where the game said otherwise.
Context
Spain (2nd FIFA) vs Saudi Arabia (~60th FIFA).
Level of the teams
- Spain: reigning European champion, top squad (Lamine Yamal, Pedri, Nico Williams). Top group favorite.
- Saudi Arabia: a defensive block, sitting deep and on the counter, well below in pedigree.
Key factors
- Huge gap in ranking and level in Spain's favor.
- Spain dominates possession and breaks down deep defenses.
- Saudi Arabia will look to hold on and manage the score.
Prediction
Most likely result: 3-0 Spain (alternative: 2-0 Spain)
- Spain win: 85%
- Draw: 10%
- Saudi Arabia win: 5%
Player to watch: Lamine Yamal, pure threat down the right.
Final verdict, Confidence: high
Spain is far superior in every area and should win comfortably. Barring a historic upset, it will control the game from start to finish.