At this World Cup, the name most prominently seen on the supporters’ jerseys before every Spain match is that of Lamine Yamal. Returning to the field for the Round of 32 match against Austria on Thursday at the Los Angeles Coliseum, all eyes were on him in the main camera shots. Even as players entered the pitch, he remained the focal point. However, although not the biggest name on the Spanish team, Mikel Oyarzabal has delivered an outstanding performance so far. The 29-year-old striker from Real Sociedad has scored two goals, helping the former European champions comfortably defeat Austria 3-0, securing Spain’s first knockout stage win in 16 years and a place in the last 16.
“Everyone knows Yamal is the team’s leader and all attention is centered on him,” said Spanish football analyst Guillem Balague. “Mikel Oyarzabal is like an invisible man. He has scored in every final he has played.” He added, “He is one of the smartest players we have and has the ability to win any game.”
Although Oyarzabal has had nearly a decade of international experience, he has rarely been in the spotlight. Making his debut for Spain at just 19, he missed the 2022 Qatar World Cup due to a left knee injury. Yet, leading into his first World Cup appearance in four years, he was in the best physical shape of his life. He had scored 12 goals in his last 12 international matches. With two goals against Austria, he has netted 17 goals in his last 16 starts, including four in this tournament. “The two seasons he spent fit and healthy have been the best of his career. Scoring four goals in the World Cup—he is definitely our most decisive player,” commented a coach.
Spain won Euro 2012 without a traditional striker, but now Oyarzabal anchors the team’s attack, as confirmed by his two brilliant goals against Austria. “There used to be doubts about Spain’s center forward position, but Oyarzabal fulfills that responsibility extremely effectively,” said former Spain defender César Azpilicueta. “A few years ago, he played on the right flank, but now he has transitioned to the center of the pitch.” Since last year, the only European player to score more goals in international football than Oyarzabal is Norway’s striker Erling Haaland, who has netted 22 goals.
