Spain's emphatic 4-0 victory over Saudi Arabia was more than just three points.

It was a statement.

After an underwhelming goalless draw against Cape Verde sparked questions about Spain's credentials as genuine World Cup contenders, La Roja responded with a dominant display that reminded everyone why they remain among the favorites to lift the trophy.

And afterwards, head coach Luis de la Fuente made it clear he had heard the criticism — and disagreed with every word of it.

"It's Crazy to Doubt This Team"

Spain entered the match under unexpected pressure.

Despite carrying a remarkable unbeaten run into the tournament, a frustrating stalemate in their opening game led some observers to question whether this young generation had what it takes to go all the way.

De la Fuente was having none of it.

"I think it's crazy to question this team," the Spain boss said after the victory.

"We have gone 33 consecutive matches without defeat. Of course there are good days and bad days in football, but doubting a group of young players with such talent and such a bright future is simply unfair."

The coach's comments reflected the growing belief inside the Spanish camp that the reaction to the Cape Verde result had been exaggerated.

And judging by the response on the pitch, the players clearly felt the same.

Criticism Became Fuel

Rather than allowing outside noise to damage confidence, Spain used it as motivation.

De la Fuente admitted his players had felt the criticism personally, but insisted it only strengthened their determination to respond.

"Nobody likes being criticized," he explained.

"The players were hurt because they know that image doesn't reflect who they are."

Instead of feeling sorry for themselves, Spain channelled that frustration into one of their best performances of the tournament.

"The comments they heard made them react," De la Fuente said.

"And that's a good thing because this is a group that is incredibly committed, dedicated and full of quality."

The result was a performance full of intensity, creativity and attacking purpose from the very first minute.

Yamal Changes Everything

One of the biggest reasons for Spain's resurgence was the return of Lamine Yamal to the starting lineup.

The teenage sensation immediately transformed Spain's attack, bringing pace, imagination and unpredictability that had been missing against Cape Verde.

His influence was rewarded with his first goal of the tournament, further cementing his status as one of the brightest young stars in world football.

With Yamal stretching defenses and creating space, Spain looked far more dangerous throughout the match.

Oyarzabal Delivers the Perfect Response

While Yamal grabbed headlines, Mikel Oyarzabal produced the performance of the evening.

The forward endured criticism after a difficult outing against Cape Verde, where he famously failed to register a touch during the opening half-hour.

Against Saudi Arabia, he answered in the most emphatic way possible.

One assist.

Two goals.

A dominant attacking display.

Within the opening 25 minutes, Oyarzabal had directly contributed to three goals, becoming only the second player since 1966 to achieve that feat in a World Cup match.

The achievement placed him alongside Hungarian legend Laszlo Fazekas, who accomplished the same milestone in 1982.

"His Impact Is Massive"

De la Fuente was particularly passionate when discussing Oyarzabal's importance.

The Spanish manager believes the forward remains one of the most underrated players in international football.

"People who truly understand football appreciate him enormously," he said.

"Unfortunately, there are others who don't fully understand his impact."

According to the coach, Oyarzabal's influence extends far beyond goals and assists.

"The impact he has on this team is massive," De la Fuente insisted.

"I genuinely believe he can make history in Spanish football."

Strong praise from a coach who has worked with some of the country's finest talents.

Back on Track

The victory leaves Spain with four points from two matches and firmly back in control of their World Cup destiny.

More importantly, it has restored confidence both inside and outside the dressing room.

The draw against Cape Verde may have created doubts.

The performance against Saudi Arabia erased many of them.

Now attention turns to a potentially decisive clash against Uruguay.

And if Spain continue playing with the same energy, quality and determination they displayed here, they will once again look every bit like a team capable of going all the way.

The message from De la Fuente was clear:

Write Spain off at your own risk.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=clcy6n2W2LI