Mikel Oyarzabal turned Spain’s attack around on June 21, 2026, scoring twice in a few minutes to lead La Roja to a 3-0 win over Saudi Arabia. The striker also set up Lamine Yamal’s goal, after struggling in Spain’s opening game against Cape Verde.
Spanish media highlighted his sharp form, noting that in his last 10 appearances for the national team he has scored 11 goals and added five assists. That stretch includes three assists in Spain’s 6-0 win over Turkey in Euro 2026 qualifying. One report said he is “always in the right place,” adding that with Yamal in a different setup, “this is a different Spain” and the attack is “sharper than ever.”
Oyarzabal’s brace made him the first Spain player since Fernando Torres in 2006 to score two goals in a World Cup match. Marca described him as “restless,” a constant presser who finishes every chance, and said Spain now looks like the team from the European Championship. The outlet also called him “a different player” who completes chances perfectly.
The article noted that in Spain’s previous match, Oyarzabal had not touched the ball for the first 30 minutes. The piece was published on June 21, 2026, during the 2026 World Cup.