Oyarzabal matches Spain icons with World Cup strike in semi-final
Real Sociedad’s Mikel Oyarzabal has once again put his club in the spotlight. The 29-year-old striker opened the scoring for Spain in the 22nd minute of the 2026 World Cup semi-final against France in Houston, tying legendary names like Emilio Butragueño and David Villa with five goals in a single World Cup.
That calmly converted penalty made Oyarzabal only the third player to reach that mark in a single tournament. Butragueño (1986), Villa (2010) and now Oyarzabal stand alone in that elite group. He also reached 30 goals for La Roja, joining the likes of Fernando Torres, Álvaro Morata, Raúl and David Silva among Spain’s all-time top scorers.
Why this goal matters for Real Sociedad
Oyarzabal’s form with the national team hasn’t gone unnoticed at the club. The Zubieta academy graduate continues to prove his international level isn’t a fluke. This strike comes as Real Sociedad sits 17th in La Liga with zero points after the opening matchday, having scored and conceded zero goals so far this season.
The striker has been Luis de la Fuente’s first-choice centre-forward in this World Cup. His knack for scoring in big moments - like this semi-final penalty - reinforces his value to both the national team and Real Sociedad, where he remains a cornerstone of the attack.
What this goal means for Spain’s future
Oyarzabal’s goal isn’t just a record-tying moment; it puts Spain in a strong position ahead of the final. With this strike, La Roja aims to pull off a shock upset against tournament favorites France. Already exceeding expectations, Spain now heads into the decisive match with momentum on its side.
The Real Sociedad forward continues to add minutes and goals in a tournament where he’s been decisive. His performance in Houston cements his place among Spain’s all-time top scorers and fuels the debate over his future with the national team after this World Cup.
What’s next for Oyarzabal and Real Sociedad?
After this milestone, Oyarzabal faces his biggest test yet: the 2026 World Cup final. If Spain lifts the trophy, the forward will enter the history books as one of the architects of the triumph. Back in San Sebastián, his club sits 17th in La Liga with zero points after the opening matchday, having played to a 0-0 draw.
Real Sociedad’s next challenge is to regain momentum in the league, where they face Real Madrid at home on February 7, 2027 - a match that could define their season. For now, Oyarzabal is making headlines for his role with Spain, but the txuri-urdin faithful hope their star will soon shine again at the Anoeta.
