India, June 22 -- Spain did not enter the Saudi Arabia match in panic, but there was pressure around them. A goalless draw against Cape Verde had made their Group H campaign uncomfortable. For a side expected to control matches, dictate rhythm and turn possession into punishment, the opener had raised an awkward question: could Spain find their attacking edge when the tournament demanded a response?

That is why Lamine Yamal's first start of the World Cup mattered. It was not merely the inclusion of a gifted teenager. It was Spain trusting their youngest attacking weapon to restore sharpness, pace and clarity to a team that had looked blunt in its first outing.

Yamal did not need long to answer. His early goal against Saudi Arabia did mo...