Spain's teenage star Lamine Yamal scored on his first FIFA World Cup start, helping his team to a 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia in Group H action in Atlanta. The 18-year-old forward opened the scoring in the 10th minute, connecting with Mikel Oyarzabal's cross at the back post to become the eighth youngest scorer in World Cup history.
Spain dominates Group H
Oyarzabal added two goals before halftime, and Hassan Altambakti's own goal shortly after the break completed the rout for the reigning European champion. The result put Spain on top of Group H with four points, while Uruguay and Cabo Verde both have two points, and Saudi Arabia sits at the bottom with one point.
Yamal expressed his joy after the match, stating, "I've always dreamed of being at a World Cup, and being able to score in my first match as a starter is a dream. I watched the last World Cup from a classroom, so being able to score here with my mum and my family in the stands is a dream come true."
Cabo Verde keeps knockout hopes alive
Cabo Verde earned a valuable 2-2 draw with Uruguay in Miami Gardens. Kevin Pina gave Cabo Verde an early lead, but Uruguay responded through Maximiliano Araujo and Agustin Canobbio before halftime. Helio Varela equalized in the second half after capitalizing on a defensive mistake, giving Cabo Verde another point to keep their knockout-stage hopes alive.
Iran stuns Belgium with goalless draw
In Los Angeles, Iran held 10-man Belgium to a goalless draw in one of the tournament's early surprises. Belgium defender Nathan Ngoy was sent off in the 66th minute after pulling down Mehdi Taremi, who was through on goal. Despite controlling possession and creating several chances, Belgium failed to beat Iran goalkeeper Alireza Beiranvand, who made seven saves. The draw left Belgium third in Group G with two points, behind Iran on goal difference.
Egypt comes from behind to beat New Zealand
Egypt came from behind to beat New Zealand 3-1 in Vancouver. Finn Surman gave New Zealand the lead, but second-half goals from Mostafa Zico, Mohamed Salah and Trezeguet secured Egypt's first win of the tournament and placed the African side on top of Group G with four points.
