‘We’ve Arrived and We’re Going for More’: Yamal Savours Dream Goal in Spain’s Victory
Spain forward Lamine Yamal described his first FIFA World Cup 2026 start as a dream come true after scoring in the 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia.
The 18-year-old, who had watched the previous World Cup from a classroom, said the moment was made even more special by having his mother and family in the stands.
‘That was the plan, to play for a half and get some rest, but above all to help the team,’ Yamal explained after the match.
‘The first game wasn’t really us, but now we’ve arrived and we’re going for more. It turned out the way we wanted, being 3-0 up allowed me to rest, so it was perfect.’
Reflecting on Spain’s opening draw, Yamal admitted the result had sharpened their focus.
‘Drawing a match that you feel you should win stings. It made us think a lot, and it helped us approach this match exactly how we wanted to.’
The Barcelona prodigy, already hailed as one of the brightest young talents in world football, emphasized the personal significance of his breakthrough.
‘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.’
