The Real Sociedad striker, Mikel Oyarzabal, was the starter as an offensive reference in Luis de la Fuente’s scheme and was linked to a statistical data that has generated comments in specialized media and social networks.
According to Opta Joe, a company specialized in sports statistics, Oyarzabal is the first player on record since the 1966 World Cup in England to play the first 30 minutes of a World Cup match without intervening with a single touch of the ball.
The statistics put the focus on Spain’s offensive performance during the first half. Although La Roja controlled possession, they had difficulty creating depth and connecting with their attackers against a Cape Verde team well organized in defense.
Oyarzabal increased its participation in the second half, but failed to generate clear chances or find spaces to make a difference in the rival area.
The data released by Opta Joe was widely shared on digital platforms and reopened the debate on the Spanish team’s offensive alternatives for the upcoming tournament matches.
One of the players who provided the greatest dynamism was Lamine Yamal. The winger came off the bench and offered imbalance in the final minutes, becoming one of the main threats for the Cape Verdean defense.
At 29 years old, Oyarzabal arrived at the World Cup after an outstanding season with Real Sociedad and as one of Luis de la Fuente’s trusted options in attack. However, his discreet performance in the premiere has raised questions about the composition of the starting eleven.
Despite this, the Spanish coaching staff maintains confidence in the forward, whose contribution is also usually valued for his mobility, pressure and collective work.
Spain added a point in its debut and will now face the matches against Uruguay and Saudi Arabia with the need to improve its offensive production to strengthen its qualification options.
Beyond the statistical data, the tie revealed the difficulties of the Spanish team to transform control of the ball into scoring opportunities, one of the aspects that will have to be corrected in the coming days.