ATLANTA, GEORGIA - JUNE 15: Lamine Yamal #19 of Spain in action during the FIFA World Cup 2026 Group H match between Spain and Cabo Verde at Atlanta Stadium on June 15, 2026 in Atlanta, Georgia.

Yamal back in starting XI for Spain's World Cup clash vs. Saudi Arabia

Agence France-Presse
Florencia Tan Jun / Getty Images Sport / Getty

Lamine Yamal was recalled for his first start in two months with Spain needing a spark in attack against Saudi Arabia on Sunday.

The 18-year-old made his first appearance since suffering a hamstring injury on April 22 in La Roja's opening World Cup 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 victory over eventual winners Argentina at the World Cup four years ago.

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