GAMEDAY | World Cup 2026: Lamine Yamal handed first Spain start in two months for Saudi Arabia clash

Lamine Yamal was recalled for his first start in two months with Spain needing a spark in attack against Saudi Arabia on Sunday (kick-off 6pm).

The 18-year-old made his first appearance since suffering a hamstring injury on April 22, in La Roja’s opening Fifa World Cup 2026 game, but could not inspire a breakthrough in a disappointing 0-0 draw against tournament debutants Cape Verde.

The Barcelona superstar’s return is one of four changes made by Luis de la Fuente in response to a lacklustre start from one of the pre-tournament favourites. Pedro Porro, Dani Olmo and Alex Baena also come into the side with Marcos Llorente, Fabian Ruiz, Ferran Torres and Gavi dropping out.

Saudi Arabia also drew their opening game 1-1 against Uruguay and are aiming to repeat a shock result, such as their victory over eventual winners Argentina at the World Cup four years ago.

Earlier, Lamal had told a European TV station that he’s “feeling fine” but it was “too soon” to risk it and play the full 90 minutes. It would seem that this is no longer a concern for De la Fuente and Co, who have played him in the starting XI for a meaningful shift on the field later on Sunday.

Meanwhile, Liverpool’s latest signing, Victor Munoz — the left winger and forward who left Ossasuna for the Reds — is also out due to a calf injury. 

The 2010 Champions and current European Champions will, however, be forced to find a way to adapt if they want to make the Round of 32. Uruguay loos like the only real threat to Spain’s progression to the next round and will go up against the underdog of the group — Cape Verde on Monday morning (kick-off 12am).

The tiny island nation stunned the world during their opening match against Spain, with 40-year-old goalkeeper Vozhina taking the player of the match award and winning the hearts of fans around the world. 

In that game, Yamal spent 20 minutes on the pitch but likely didn’t go full steam with the injury in the back of his mind. Despite the short period, his time on the pitch produced more than a few moments of attacking electricity. 

Hopefully, his presence is a little more fruitful against the Saudi Arabian attack.  |  Additional reporting by AFP

Jehran Naidoo is sports reporter for Independent Media and social media coordinator of the our YouTube channel The Clutch