Spain’s seasonal performance theme is clear again: a Barça backbone guides the result. In a 1-0 win over Argentina, the national team leaned on control, craft and direct running. Sofascore data spotlights Pau Cubarsí, Pedri and Lamine Yamal topping key metrics that shaped the match.

Cubarsí sets the rhythm

The center-back led Spain for touches with 139. He also completed 121 of 126 passes, the best accurate-pass count in the game. That volume and precision underpinned Spain’s patient buildup and helped protect the narrow lead.

Pedri, Spain’s supply line

Pedri created a team-high 4 key passes. He also posted 0.47 expected assists, which marked Spain’s top xA figure. His ability to find pockets and slip final balls kept Argentina’s back line occupied throughout.

Lamine Yamal carries the threat

Lamine Yamal won 9 of 18 ground duels and completed 5 of 9 dribbles. Those numbers show a direct outlet who pushed Spain up the pitch and drew defenders out of shape. It added a different gear to Spain’s attack next to the controlled passing around him.

Spain’s winning recipe

Cubarsí’s control, Pedri’s chance creation and Lamine Yamal’s carrying gave Spain a balanced path to 1-0. It reads like a repeatable plan for the national team’s seasonal performance: dominate the ball, supply runners, and win key duels out wide. It is also impossible not to mention other Barcelona players who made the difference: the magicians Dani Olmo and Pedri, the finals hero Ferran Torres, and always reliable Gavi and Eric García. We were able to witness Spain’s World Cup triumph built on a Barça foundation. You can track these metrics and the Sofascore Rating for every Spain match directly on Sofascore.