Luis de la Fuente fiercely defended his Spain players following intense media scrutiny, branding any doubts over his squad as crazy after a commanding 4-0 win over Saudi Arabia at the World Cup.Spain faced a wave of criticism following a lethargic, scoreless draw against Cape Verde in their World Cup opener.However, sparked by the return of Lamine Yamal to the starting lineup, La Roja issued a perfect response in their second Group H fixture, safely restoring faith in their title ambitions.Speaking after the resounding victory, De la Fuente took aim at the negativity surrounding his side.I think its crazy to question this team, the manager said. We have been unbeaten for 33 consecutive games. You can have better days, worse days, normal days, but questioning, doubting this generation of very young footballers with a bright future, I think its unfair.De la Fuente had previously noted that his players were using the outside noise as motivation, a sentiment he strongly reiterated after watching his side dismantle Saudi Arabia.Nobody enjoys receiving criticism, he said. Their pride was hurt, of course, because this is not a reality. We can do even better than this, as weve shown on other occasions.Those remarks that they hear, of course, sometimes make them react. And thats good because its a very committed, dedicated team with amazing quality.You are great professionals. But there are things I wouldnt like to listen to. And thats why I dont listen to any programme, for example, and thats why I try to stay positive and to isolate myself from all that noise.The evening also provided vindication for forward Mikel Oyarzaba who was a primary target for critics after an unhappy record of failing to touch the ball in the opening half hour against Cape Verde. Against Saudi Arabia, he responded emphatically, providing an assist and scoring twice in a lethal first-half display.People who know about football value him greatly, De la Fuente said. Unfortunately, there are people who think that he doesnt have such a big impact. The impact Mikel has on the team is massive, probably bigger than any other player could have in the world.Im convinced that hes a footballer that can really make history in Spanish football. His numbers are crazy. So I just celebrate his performance and hopefully we will be able to value him properly. Topics Spain National Football Team Add us as a preferred source on Google If you enjoy reading this article, you can help support our independent football journalism by adding 101 Great Goals as a preferred source You Should Also Read Spain 4-0 Saudi Arabia: Report, result and goals as Yamal leads La Roja to important World Cup win Mitch Fretton 21st June, 2026 WATCH: Yamal scores as Spain blow Saudi Arabia away with magic first half in World Cup showdown Mitch Fretton 21st June, 2026 LIVE Spain v Saudi Arabia: Commentary, updates, goals and stats as Lamine Yamal makes first World Cup start Jon Fisher 21st June, 2026 Spain vs Saudi Arabia: Line-ups confirmed as Yamal starts World Cup clash Mitch Fretton 21st June, 2026 Unrepentant Lamine Yamal has no intention of changing his lifestyle: I have the power to do whatever I want with my life Jon Fisher 21st June, 2026 Spain v Saudi Arabia: Preview, predicted line-ups and where to watch Nicholas McGee 21st June, 2026
