Lamine Yamal got the start against Saudi Arabia on Sunday, June 21, scored a goal, and then exited the World Cup match at halftime.
Yamal came off the bench in Spain’s opener against Cape Verde, his first appearance since suffering a season-ending hamstring injury in April.
The 18-year-old could not prevent Spain from a shocking 0-0 draw against the Blue Sharks, but he was instrumental against Saudi Arabia, scoring the opener at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
After Yamal’s goal, Mikel Oyarzabal scored a first-half brace to give Spain a comfortable 3-0 lead.
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente opted to take both Yamal and Oyarzabal off at the break with La Roja holding a big advantage.
This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lamine Yamal subs out Spain vs. Saudi Arabia. World Cup injury update
