While Lamine Yamal commands the spotlight, 29-year-old Mikel Oyarzabal has emerged as Spain’s most vital offensive weapon. The Real Sociedad forward netted twice in a 3-0 victory over Austria, securing Spain’s first World Cup knockout stage win in 16 years.
Expert Guillem Balague described Oyarzabal as the squad’s “invisible man” and its most intelligent, decisive figure. After overcoming a severe knee injury that caused him to miss the 2022 tournament, Oyarzabal has hit peak form, scoring 17 goals in his last 16 international appearances. This total includes four goals in the current World Cup, making him the most productive European international behind Erling Haaland since last year.
Oyarzabal’s success is bolstered by the defensive attention Lamine Yamal draws, creating space for the striker to operate in his new central role. Having transitioned from the wing, he credits his early experience playing hockey with developing his clinical “nose for goal.” Spain remains unbeaten in 34 matches, and with their solid defensive record and Oyarzabal’s clinical finishing, they appear to be formidable title contenders as they look toward a quarter-final matchup.
