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UAE Launches First National Passenger Rail Network, Desert Express Begins Operation

June 29, Kathmandu – The United Arab Emirates (UAE) has inaugurated its first national passenger rail service. This long-awaited express train network has now been opened to the public and will connect 11 cities across the region.

The Middle Eastern country’s inaugural rail service departed from Fujairah, located on the Gulf of Oman, at 5:34 a.m. local time on Tuesday. The inaugural journey covered approximately 250 kilometers, arriving at the Mohammad bin Zayed City Station in the capital, Abu Dhabi, at 7:19 a.m., taking 1 hour and 45 minutes.

According to CNN, operator Etihad Rail announced the start of its “initial operational phase.” This first service was the inaugural run among six scheduled services planned for the network’s opening day.

Before launching this new rail service, Etihad Rail had already sold over 10,000 tickets, as stated in a company press release.

The company promises customers a “modern travel experience” featuring air-conditioned coaches, onboard Wi-Fi, power outlets, and reserved seating. For greater comfort and amenities, premium class services have also been made available.

Fares start at 55 dirhams (approximately $15) for Comfort Class and 120 dirhams ($33) for Premium Class. Currently, Etihad Rail operates 13 trains, each with a capacity to carry 400 passengers.

Etihad Rail’s Chief Operating Officer, Azza Al Suwaidi, said in a statement, “The first departure from Fujairah this morning represents a moment where the national vision becomes part of everyday life. It provides people with a new way to connect with each other, opportunities, and the places that make our country so unique. Today’s travelers will proudly say for years to come that they witnessed the very beginning of this journey.”

What are the future plans?

The network will expand later this year with the opening of the Dubai Train Station and Al Dhaid Train Station on September 30. Three months afterward, the Al Dhafra Station will also become operational. According to Etihad Rail, the Sharjah Station is slated to open by the end of next March, completing the entire route.

This 900-kilometer network is a significant part of the UAE’s broader plan to reduce carbon emissions and develop a sustainable transportation system. Once all stations are operational, the network will link the Gulf of Oman, across the Emirates to the Persian Gulf, connect inland areas of Abu Dhabi, and extend to Al Ghuwaifat near the Saudi Arabian border.

Transport Integration and Expert Opinions

Emirates citizens are known for their love of cars, so launching a rail system also required finding suitable options to transport people from stations to their homes or other destinations.

Abdullah Hamad Al Ghaffeli, acting Director General of the government body responsible for transportation, the Integrated Transport Centre, stated they have been collaborating with Etihad Rail. He said, “We have connected passenger rail to Abu Dhabi’s extensive public transport network, facilitating seamless and continuous travel for residents and visitors using buses, taxis, and other modes of transportation.”

Though the rail service has launched in the UAE, the impact on international tourism still remains to be seen.

Mark Smith, founder of the popular train website “The Man in Seat 61” and a rail travel expert, commented, “To be honest, I’m not entirely sure of its significance yet. At this stage, it doesn’t connect Abu Dhabi to the outside world, I don’t hear many people planning to travel there, and I wonder if enough people actually want to visit the destinations the new rail line serves?”

 

Early Second-Half Goal by Ndaye Doubles Switzerland’s Lead

19 Ashar, Kathmandu – In the Round of 32 match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Switzerland extended their lead early in the second half. The game, played at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, Canada, saw Swiss player Dan Ndaye score within the first minute after halftime, doubling the team’s advantage. The Nottingham Forest winger found the net just 48 seconds into the second half. Earlier, in the 10th minute of the first half, Breel Embolo had opened the scoring for Switzerland with an assist from Johan Manzambi.

Switzerland Takes the Lead Against Algeria

June 19, Kathmandu – In the Round of 32 match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Switzerland has taken the lead against Algeria. The match, currently underway at BC Place Stadium in Vancouver, Canada, saw Swiss player Breel Embolo score in the 10th minute to give his team the advantage. Embolo’s goal came from an assist by Johan Manzambi.

Health Insurance: What Changes Have Been Made and What Are the Future Plans?

Patient undergoing a health check-up (file photo)

Image source, RSS

Health officials report that the government is implementing phased improvements to sustain the health insurance program currently active across the country.

Officials from the Ministry of Health and Food Safety and the Health Insurance Board have stated that some reforms have already been implemented and further steps are underway regarding the program.

Finance Minister Swarnim Wagle has pointed out that it is no longer feasible to continue the insurance program in its existing form, necessitating changes.

Experts have also suggested improving the current system of mobilizing financial resources to make Nepal’s health insurance program sustainable.

Although the government announced a budget of 2.1 billion rupees for the health insurance program this year, the Ministry of Finance has so far released only 1.1 billion rupees as of this Monday.

How Much Do They Earn? – Income Details of the Top 10 Content Creators of 2026

July 4, Kathmandu – Content creation is no longer just a casual hobby or a pastime; it has now become a multi-billion-dollar industry competing with Hollywood. The recently released Forbes Top Creators 2026 list confirms this trend. Forbes ranks creators based on their total earnings, follower base, engagement rates, and entrepreneurial ventures, meaning creators with lower income but high influence can still rank high. While the population working in the Los Angeles film industry (Hollywood) has historically declined, creators are outperforming Hollywood at the box office. For instance, the horror web series-based movie “Backrooms” by Kane Parsons was produced with a budget of only $10 million but earned over $260 million. Similarly, “Obsession,” produced on a budget of $750,000, grossed over $290 million. In Forbes’ five-year history, the total earnings of the top 50 creators crossed $1 billion for the first time, reaching $1.02 billion (approximately 136 billion Nepali rupees), which is a 20% increase from last year’s $853 million.

Who are the top 10 content creators on this list, what type of content do they produce, and how much do they earn? Let’s find out:

1. MrBeast (Jimmy Donaldson)
MrBeast has secured the No. 1 spot on the Forbes list for the fifth consecutive year and is the biggest star on YouTube. He is famous for large-scale, expensive stunts, challenges, and massive philanthropic projects. Transforming YouTube stunts into a global production studio, Jimmy Donaldson rules the platform. His YouTube channels have over 640 million subscribers and receive over 500 million views annually. He is now not just a YouTuber but runs an entire media empire. His income comes from YouTube ads, sponsorships, his snack brand (Feastables), the lunch service, and major projects like “Beast Games” on Amazon Prime. In February 2026, he took a step into personal finance by acquiring the app “Step,” which teaches teenagers about investing and asset management.
Estimated earnings: $300 million (approximately 40 billion Nepali rupees)
Followers: 873 million

2. Dhar Mann
Dhar Mann, originally from India, is a storyteller who creates life-applicable and inspirational short films. He is the founder of Dhar Mann Studios, where over 200 employees work. His videos are translated into 13 languages and garner around 300 million views weekly. His main revenue comes from YouTube ads, corporate partnerships with brands like Adobe and NFL, and deals with television networks. He has signed a contract with Fox Entertainment to produce 40 vertical dramas within 18 months.
Estimated earnings: $65 million
Followers: 171 million

3. Steven Bartlett
Steven is a successful entrepreneur and host of the popular podcast “The Diary of a CEO.” Starting his interview program from his kitchen, it has grown into a $425 million company named Steven.com. He conducts long and deep interviews with CEOs, scientists, athletes, and celebrities. His audio and video podcasts enjoy worldwide popularity. He generates income from advertisements, sponsorships, and transforming the podcast into a large media business. Steven has also returned as an investor (judge) on the sixth season of “Dragons’ Den.”
Estimated earnings: $52 million
Followers: 38.7 million

4. Markiplier (Mark Fischbach)
Mark has held a royal position in the YouTube gaming world for over a decade. He is now busy with independent filmmaking and horror movies, working to bridge content and Hollywood. He earns from gaming videos, brand deals, podcasts, merchandise sales, and his own film productions. His self-funded feature film “Iron Lung” was released in 3,000 theaters across North America, grossing $50 million at the box office, with Mark holding a 50/50 share with theaters.
Estimated earnings: $38 million
Followers: 76.8 million

5. Rhett & Link
Rhett & Link are a comedy duo running the daily YouTube show “Good Mythical Morning” since 2012, producing about 240 episodes annually. They have around 20 million viewers. They founded their own studio network called “Mythical Entertainment.” Through daily videos, collaborations with various brands, and their production company, they have amassed significant wealth.
Estimated earnings: $37 million
Followers: 45.6 million

6. Charli D’Amelio
Charli, who went viral on TikTok with dance videos, has become an entertainer and fashion personality. Although her earnings are lower compared to other top creators, her influence places her in sixth place. She earns from major fashion brand deals, her own fashion line, and various entertainment projects. After a Broadway stint, she has returned to her popular dance videos and YouTube vlogs.
Estimated earnings: $18 million
Followers: 209.8 million

7. Druski (Drew Desbordes)
Druski is a famous sketch comedian known for his unscripted comedy and the fictional record label “Trash Bin Records,” which has gone viral. He has turned internet viral comedy into a corporate venture and earns through brand deals, acting, and live shows. Collaborations with Hollywood stars such as Kevin Hart and Timothée Chalamet, brand endorsements, and hosting gigs contribute to his income. This June, he hosted the prestigious BET Awards.
Estimated earnings: $20 million
Followers: 38.5 million

8. IShowSpeed (Darren Jason Watkins Jr.)
Speed is a livestream sensation who creates gaming and football-related content, notably as a fan of Cristiano Ronaldo. He is widely recognized worldwide. His earnings come not only from YouTube ads but also from massive donations during live streams and global tours such as streaming during the 2026 World Cup.
Estimated earnings: $30 million
Followers: 184 million

9. Mark Rober
Former NASA engineer Mark Rober creates entertaining videos that teach science and engineering in fun ways. He is known as the “Mad Scientist” on social media. He earns from viral YouTube videos, sponsorships, and educational engineering kits targeted at children. Brands like Revlon, Google, and Disney are attracted to his educational content. His company, CrunchLabs, sells science kits. This spring, he also gave a TED talk about energizing STEM education in the U.S.
Estimated earnings: $30 million
Followers: 90.7 million

10. Kody Sanchez
Former journalist Kody Sanchez now creates content on buying small businesses, investing, and financial education. She has expanded her empire through financial architecture, small business investments, newsletters, and various courses and consulting on finance. She earns significant income from millions of followers on TikTok, Instagram, and YouTube through small business tips, financial courses, and investment consulting.
Estimated earnings: $31 million
Followers: 10 million

Portugal and Spain to Clash in Round of 16 at FIFA World Cup 2026

41-year-old superstar Cristiano Ronaldo is set to face off against the young global football sensation Lamin Yamal at the FIFA World Cup 2026. On 19 Ashar in Kathmandu, two European neighbors, Portugal and Spain, have secured their spots to meet in the Round of 16.

In a match held on Friday morning, Portugal came from behind to defeat Croatia 2-1, sealing their encounter with Spain. Portugal equalized through Ronaldo’s penalty after falling behind by one goal, and the super sub Goncalo Ramos scored the decisive goal during injury time of the second half to clinch the victory.

Spain also confirmed their progression to the Round of 16 on Friday morning by defeating Austria 3-0. Both European neighbors are considered strong contenders for the World Cup title, though only one will advance beyond this knockout stage.

Many had viewed the Ronaldo versus Yamal matchup as a potential alternative to the dream duel between Lionel Messi and Cristiano Ronaldo. However, with Portugal finishing as runners-up in their group, a possible encounter between Argentina and Portugal was ruled out, meaning Messi and Ronaldo could have only faced each other in the final.

Now, before any such final duel, football fans are assured of witnessing the match between the 41-year-old Ronaldo and the young global star Lamin Yamal at the World Cup. When Ronaldo debuted in the 2006 World Cup, Yamal was not yet born. This time, Yamal will compete against Ronaldo, who is more than twice his age. Yamal has also made his World Cup debut in this tournament and scored his first goal against Saudi Arabia.

2026 FIFA World Cup: Why Are 8 of the World’s 10 Most Populous Countries Absent?

On June 17, when Argentina’s renowned player Lionel Messi calmly scored his first goal in the FIFA World Cup by outwrowing Algeria’s goalkeeper, the packed crowd erupted in excitement and celebration. However, not a single person in that crowd was from Argentina. The enthusiastic supporters, jumping, dancing, and wearing the “Albiceleste” (white and sky blue) jerseys, were actually local residents of Bangladesh. They had gathered at an open-air public viewing event in the capital city, Dhaka. Similar lively street gatherings were also organized in cities across India and Indonesia. These fans appeared to embrace Messi and his compatriots as if they were their own national team. This may be because their own national teams have repeatedly failed to qualify for the World Cup.

Among the world’s ten most populous countries, only two (the United States and Brazil) are participating in the current tournament. Russia and Nigeria have previously competed in many World Cup editions. China and Indonesia, while ranking among the most populous nations globally, have only appeared once each in the World Cup. Meanwhile, India, Bangladesh, Ethiopia, and Pakistan—the other highly populous countries—have yet to participate in the tournament, with participation still a distant dream. Technically, India qualified for the 1950 World Cup in Brazil but withdrew less than a month before the competition began.

“It is frankly unacceptable for a country with millions of football fans to be so far behind in football,” said Bangladeshi actress, writer, and football enthusiast Adite Karim. So why can a country’s population size not be relied upon as an accurate measure of football success? Does size truly matter? Theoretically, a larger population provides a greater pool of potential players to select from. Of the eight countries that have won the World Cup so far, seven—Argentina, Brazil, England, France, Germany, Italy, and Spain—have relatively large populations. The only exception is Uruguay.

However, British academic and economist Stephen Shmansky explains that population size is not the sole crucial factor determining football success. Co-author of the acclaimed data-driven sports analysis book Soccernomics, Shmansky notes, “Football, in many ways, operates like a national economy. For a country to prosper, it needs a workforce, but it also requires capital and infrastructure.” “In football terms, this means access to quality training facilities and the ability to identify talented players.”

Man Rescued Alive from Venezuelan Earthquake Debris After 8 Days

Kathmandu, 19 Ashar. A man trapped for eight days under the rubble of a building collapsed by two powerful earthquakes in Venezuela has been rescued alive. Rescue workers safely extricated Hernan Gil, who was trapped beneath approximately 140 tons of debris, after more than 100 hours of locating his position. Since the twin earthquakes on June 24 in Venezuela, about 2,300 deaths have been confirmed, while tens of thousands remain missing. Search and rescue efforts continue.

A firefighter from Chile involved in Gil’s rescue described the operation as the most technically challenging rescue mission they have ever faced. Alan Madrigal, a paramedic with the Costa Rican Red Cross, reported that Gil was removed from the rubble in a “completely stable” condition. Madrigal was also the first to hear Gil’s faint voice inside the rubble on Sunday. “It was an extremely emotional moment,” he said. “At first, I could hardly believe my ears. I called a colleague and asked if I was just imagining it, to be sure.”

At the time of the earthquake, Gil was on duty in a small concrete security booth located in the basement of a parking structure next to the Galerias Playa Grande shopping mall in Catia La Mar. Initial reports indicate that the booth acted as a protective enclosure around him, helping him survive beneath approximately 140 tons of falling debris. During the rescue, Gil was provided with water, and medical personnel administered intravenous saline to him.

Gil has been described as an “enthusiastic and cheerful person.” After the rescue team established direct visual contact, they sent a small camera into the rubble. A Chilean firefighter on the video could be heard asking Gil to turn his head toward the camera. The footage showed one of his eyes red; he was wearing a mask supplied through a small opening by rescuers to protect him from dust and debris.

Portugal Defeats Croatia to Secure Spot in FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16

Goals from Cristiano Ronaldo and Goncalo Ramos powered Portugal’s comeback, securing their place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 Round of 16. On June 3, in Kathmandu, substitute Goncalo Ramos delivered a decisive injury-time goal as Portugal overcame Croatia 2-1 to advance to the knockout stages of the tournament. Trailing by one goal, strikes from Ronaldo and Ramos turned the match around, earning Portugal a crucial victory. Portugal will now face neighboring Spain in the Round of 16.

The match, held in Toronto, saw Croatian player Ivan Perisic put his team ahead in the 53rd minute. However, Cristiano Ronaldo equalized from the penalty spot in the 68th minute, marking his first-ever World Cup knockout-stage goal. With both teams level near the end of regulation time, the thrilling contest was decided in the fourth minute of second-half injury time when Goncalo Ramos headed in the winning goal.

Goalless Draw in First Half Between Portugal and Croatia in World Cup Round of 32

June 19, Kathmandu – In the Round of 32 match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Portugal and Croatia played to a goalless draw in the first half. The game, held at Toronto Stadium in Canada, saw neither team managing to score a goal.

The much-anticipated rivalry between Portugal’s renowned player Cristiano Ronaldo and Croatia’s Luka Modrić has drawn significant attention; however, neither was able to make a decisive impact during the opening half. This marks the first direct competition between these two players in a World Cup tournament.

Oyarzabal Scores Second Goal to Give Spain a 3-0 Lead

Mikel Oyarzabal of Spain scored his second goal against Austria. June 18, Kathmandu. In the Round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup 2026, Spain’s Mikel Oyarzabal netted his second personal goal against Austria. Scoring in the final moments of the match in Los Angeles, Oyarzabal gave Spain a 3-0 lead, bringing the team closer to their first World Cup victory in 16 years. With two goals in this match, Oyarzabal’s total goal tally has reached four, placing him in the race for the Golden Boot. During the group stage, he had scored twice against Saudi Arabia.

Spain’s Goalkeeper Unai Simón Sets New Record for Longest Clean Sheet

Unai Simón has surpassed the longstanding record of 518 consecutive minutes without conceding a goal, previously held by Italy’s Walter Zenga since 1990. On June 18 in Kathmandu, Spain’s goalkeeper Simón established a new record for the longest streak without conceding a goal in FIFA World Cup history.

After keeping a clean sheet in Spain’s 3-0 victory over Austria on Friday morning in the 2026 FIFA World Cup, Simón extended his record to 519 consecutive minutes without letting in a goal, setting an unparalleled mark.

Simón broke the previous record of 518 minutes set by Italy’s Walter Zenga in 1990. Throughout the currently ongoing World Cup, he has maintained clean sheets in all four matches Spain has played. In the 2022 Qatar World Cup, Simón conceded his last World Cup goal in the 51st minute during the final group stage match, which Spain lost 2-1 against Japan.

Although Spain was eliminated in the Round of 16 by Morocco after a 3-0 penalty shootout loss, Simón did not concede during regular time. In this 23rd edition of the World Cup held in North America, former champions Spain have remained undefeated, reaching the Round of 16 and positioning themselves as strong contenders for the title. Goalkeeper Simón has become the team’s defensive cornerstone contributing significantly to this success.

Spain Advances to Round of 16 with First Knockout Stage Win in 16 Years

Spain scored and won a knockout stage game for the first time since winning the World Cup in South Africa in 2010.

18 Asar, Kathmandu – Spain defeated Austria 3-0 to secure their first knockout stage victory since 2010.

In the FIFA World Cup 2026 match held at Skukraraj in the morning, Mikel Oyarzabal’s brace helped Spain comfortably overcome Austria.

This marks Spain’s first knockout stage win since lifting the World Cup trophy in 2010 by defeating the Netherlands in the final held in South Africa.

Spain will now face the winner between Portugal and Croatia in the Round of 16.

Oyarzabal scored once in each half, while Pedro Poro added another goal.

At Los Angeles Stadium, Mikel Oyarzabal opened the scoring for Spain in the 36th minute, tapping in a pass from Marc Cucurella.

Oyarzabal’s goal was Spain’s first in a World Cup knockout match since Andres Iniesta scored against the Netherlands in the 2010 final.

During the first half, Spain created several strong scoring opportunities, but Austria’s goalkeeper Alexander Schlager made impressive saves, denying Spain a bigger lead.

Marc Cucurella’s goal in the 29th minute was disallowed by the referee for impeding the Austrian goalkeeper.

Similarly, Oyarzabal’s shot in the 33rd minute was brilliantly saved by Schlager.

In the second minute of first-half injury time, Alex Baena’s free-kick hit the crossbar and the rebound shot from Jamal was also saved by goalkeeper Schlager, preventing Spain from doubling their lead.

Leading by one goal at halftime, Spain added two more goals in the second half.

Pedro Poro doubled Spain’s lead in the 66th minute by scoring off Alex Baena’s cross. This was Poro’s first international goal.

Oyarzabal then scored his second goal of the match in the 89th minute.

With two goals in this match, Oyarzabal’s World Cup tally reached four, making him a contender for the Golden Boot.

He had previously scored twice against Saudi Arabia in the group stage.

Oyarzabal ranks sixth among World Cup scorers. France captain Kylian Mbappe and Argentina captain Lionel Messi lead with six goals each, followed by Norway’s Erling Haaland and England captain Harry Kane with five each. France’s Ousmane Dembele, with four goals and two assists, is ranked ahead of Oyarzabal.

Oyarzabal shares a tally of four goals and one assist with Brazil’s Vinicius Junior and Senegal’s Ismaila Sarr but is placed ahead due to fewer minutes played.

 

13 Local Governments, 6 Enterprises, and 7 Entrepreneurs Honored for Declaring Child Labor-Free Zones

18 Ashar, Kathmandu – The government has recognized local governments, industrial establishments, and entrepreneurs who have made significant contributions to eradicating child labor, promoting safe workplaces, and developing entrepreneurship within the country. The Ministry of Youth, Labour and Employment honored 13 local governments declared child labor-free, six industrial establishments excelling in Occupational Safety and Health (OSH), and seven entrepreneurs who have returned from foreign employment to establish businesses domestically during a ceremony held on Thursday.

The ministry stated that these entrepreneurs received the ‘National Entrepreneur Award’ for returning from foreign employment, establishing enterprises in Nepal, creating jobs, and contributing to the national economy.

Among the awardees, Lok Bahadur Rai from Morang, who operates Prashansa Honey Farm, was awarded the National Best Entrepreneur Award along with a cash prize of NPR 150,000. Additionally, Manika and Yunika Bangur Farm in Haldibari, Jhapa, received the National Excellent Entrepreneur Award. Other recipients of the National Excellent Entrepreneur Award include G Hill Kutani Pisani Industry from Saptari, MG Agro Farm from Sindhuli, SK Agriculture and Livestock Farm from Parbat, Dipesh and Bibesh Agriculture and Livestock Farm from Arghakhanchi, and New Kalika Auto Parts from Bajura. The prize money for the Excellent Entrepreneur Award is NPR 75,000 per recipient.

Furthermore, the Department of Labour and Occupational Safety honored six industrial establishments recognized for excellence based on 22 indicators related to occupational safety and health. The recognized institutions include Navajeevan Hospital (Kailali), Hongshi Shivam Cement (East Nawalparasi), Ambe Steel (Rupandehi), Asian Paints (Hetauda), Maruti Cement (Siraha), and Mainawati Steel Industries (Sunsari). No establishments from Karnali Province were selected due to the absence of applications, the ministry added.

The local governments honored for declaring themselves child labor-free include Raghuganga Rural Municipality (Myagdi), Triveni Rural Municipality (Rolpa), BanGanga Municipality (Kapilvastu), Suryodaya Municipality (Ilam), Myagde Rural Municipality (Tanahun), Pouwadunga Rural Municipality (Bhojpur), Bareng Rural Municipality (Baglung), Biruwa Rural Municipality (Syangja), Panauti Municipality (Kavrepalanchok), Kharpunath Rural Municipality (Humla), Fedikhola Rural Municipality (Syangja), Buddhbhoomi Municipality (Kapilvastu), and Chandragiri Municipality (Kathmandu). During the event, Minister of Youth, Labour and Employment Ramji Yadav emphasized that only through worker protection, ending child labor, law enforcement, and creating a conducive environment for domestic opportunities can a prosperous nation be built.

Minister Yadav praised the 13 local governments that declared themselves child labor-free and urged all municipalities to prioritize such campaigns. He highlighted that children belong in schools and playgrounds, not at work, and acknowledged that the number of such municipalities remains insufficient. The government provides a grant of NPR 300,000 as encouragement to local governments declaring child labor-free zones and an additional NPR 200,000 upon successful declaration.

The minister also noted that responsible business operations enhance worker security, dignity, and productivity, and pledged continued government support for promoting responsible businesses in both domestic and foreign labor markets. He lauded youth who return from foreign employment to establish enterprises domestically, create jobs, and contribute economically, expressing hope that they will inspire others. The ministry expressed confidence that such recognition and incentive programs will encourage more local governments, industries, and the private sector to work toward ending child labor, building safe workplaces, and fostering domestic entrepreneurship.

Spain Holds 1-0 Lead at Half-Time

In the second minute of injury time in the first half, Alex Baena struck a free kick that hit the bar, missing an opportunity for Spain to double their lead. On the rebound, Lamin Yamal’s shot was brilliantly saved by Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager. As of 18 Ashar, Kathmandu time, during the Round of 32 match of the FIFA World Cup 2026, Spain leads Austria 1-0 at half-time.

Mikel Oyarzabal scored the only goal for Spain in the first half, netting in the 36th minute at the Los Angeles Stadium. He received a pass from Marc Cucurella to secure the lead for Spain. Oyarzabal became the first Spanish player to score in a World Cup knockout stage match since Andrés Iniesta’s goal against the Netherlands in the 2010 World Cup final.

From the onset, Spain maintained relentless pressure on Austria, creating numerous chances throughout the half, but managed only one goal. Austrian goalkeeper Alexander Schlager made several outstanding saves. A goal by Spain’s Marc Cucurella in the 29th minute was disallowed by the referee due to obstruction of the Austrian goalkeeper by Spanish players. Oyarzabal’s 33rd-minute attempt was also saved by Schlager.

Austrian defenders kept close watch on Spain’s young star Lamin Yamal, limiting his impact. During the second minute of first-half injury time, after Baena’s free kick struck the bar and rebounded, Yamal’s subsequent shot was again denied by Schlager. Schlager’s remarkable performance in the first half includes four crucial saves that prevented any further goals against Austria.