Why Lamine Yamal subbed out at halftime of Spain vs. Saudi Arabia

Lamine Yamal got the start against Saudi Arabia on Sunday, June 21, scored a goal, and then exited the World Cup match at halftime.

Yamal came off the bench in Spain's opener against Cape Verde, his first appearance since suffering a season-ending hamstring injury in April.

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The 18-year-old could not prevent Spain from a shocking 0-0 draw against the Blue Sharks, but he was instrumental against Saudi Arabia, scoring the opener at Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.

After Yamal's goal, Mikel Oyarzabal scored a first-half brace to give Spain a comfortable 3-0 lead.

Spain coach Luis de la Fuente opted to take both Yamal and Oyarzabal off at the break with La Roja holding a big advantage.

This article originally appeared on USA TODAY: Lamine Yamal subs out Spain vs. Saudi Arabia. World Cup injury update