Spain will be determined to make a statement when they face Saudi Arabia in their second World Cup group-stage match after a frustrating start to the tournament.
Few expected Luis de la Fuente’s talented squad to be held scoreless by World Cup newcomers Cape Verde, but that is exactly what happened. Despite dominating possession, creating numerous chances and firing 27 shots at goal, La Roja were unable to find the breakthrough in a surprising 0-0 draw.
The result has increased the pressure ahead of Sunday’s clash, but it could also bring out the best in one of the tournament favourites.
Saudi Arabia arrive with confidence after securing an unexpected point against Uruguay. However, the scoreline may have flattered the Green Falcons, who spent large periods of the match under pressure and relied heavily on defensive resilience and missed opportunities from their opponents.
With Spain desperate to get their World Cup campaign back on track, this looks like a difficult assignment for the Saudi side.
Spain vs Saudi Arabia Prediction
Spain should have little trouble creating chances once again, and if they show greater composure in front of goal, a comfortable victory could be on the cards.
The statistics from their opening game suggest the draw against Cape Verde was more about poor finishing than poor performance. Spain controlled 74 percent possession, generated over two expected goals and rarely looked threatened at the other end.
Saudi Arabia’s draw with Uruguay was a positive result, but it masked some concerning numbers. Uruguay outshot them 27-7 and controlled most of the ball. Against a technically gifted Spanish team, they may struggle to absorb that level of pressure for 90 minutes.
Spain have also developed a habit of winning convincingly when they find their rhythm, recording victories by three or more goals in several recent matches.
Best Bet: Spain -2 Handicap
Oyarzabal Ready to Lead the Attack
One player who looked particularly dangerous in Spain’s opening match was Mikel Oyarzabal.
The Real Sociedad forward registered five attempts against Cape Verde and was unfortunate not to get on the scoresheet. His movement, finishing ability and confidence make him one of Spain’s biggest attacking threats heading into this contest.
Oyarzabal’s recent form has been outstanding. He scored 15 league goals during the 2025/26 season and has found the net eight times in his last eight appearances for the national team.
With Spain expected to dominate possession and create opportunities, backing Oyarzabal to score looks a strong option.
Alternative Bet: Mikel Oyarzabal Anytime Goalscorer
Betting Builder to Consider
A strong same-game selection could include:
- Spain to win without conceding
- Lamine Yamal to score or provide an assist
- Nasser Al Dawsari to commit over 1.5 fouls
- Mikel Oyarzabal to record over 2.5 shots
Spain’s defensive record has been excellent, with eight clean sheets from their last 11 matches. Saudi Arabia, meanwhile, have struggled for goals in recent fixtures and may find chances hard to come by.
Lamine Yamal is another player worth watching. The Barcelona sensation was used cautiously in Spain’s opener but could return to the starting lineup here. With five goal contributions across his last four appearances for club and country, he has the quality to make an immediate impact.
At the same time, Saudi Arabia’s Nasser Al Dawsari may find himself tasked with slowing down the teenage star. After committing three fouls against Uruguay, he could once again be heavily involved in defensive battles.
Key Stats
- Spain have kept eight clean sheets in their last 11 matches.
- Mikel Oyarzabal has scored eight goals in his last eight appearances for Spain.
- Saudi Arabia have failed to score in three of their last seven games.
- The Green Falcons have lost four of those seven matches.
- Lamine Yamal has contributed five goals or assists in his last four appearances for club and country.
Verdict
Spain’s opening draw was one of the biggest surprises of the first round, but their overall performance was far stronger than the result suggested. If they maintain that level and improve their finishing, Saudi Arabia could find themselves under relentless pressure.
Expect La Roja to bounce back with a convincing victory, while Oyarzabal looks well placed to add to his impressive international scoring record.
