Wim Kieft says Spain lack a Jari Litmanen‑type striker

Wim Kieft argues that Spain miss a specific type of forward when Mikel Oyarzabal occupies the striker role. He praised Oyarzabal’s performance in the World Cup clash with Saudi Arabia, where the Spaniard scored twice and supplied the assist for the 1‑0 goal. Kieft noted, "Wat Oyarzabal veel doet, is dat hij uitwijkt," while analysing the match on . He described the pass that led to the 1‑0 goal as "echt geweldig" and highlighted Oyarzabal’s ability to create space. The former Dutch international warned that Oyarzabal’s tendency to drift away creates a problem for Spain. He said the team already has talents such as Dani Olmo and Pedri, but lacks a hungry scorer who can finish the chances created.

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When asked which player type he would like to see behind Oyarzabal, Kieft answered, "Dan kan ik heel cliché gaan zeggen: een Jari Litmanen of Dennis Bergkamp." He suggested a player who could sit on the penalty spot and feed the striker. Kieft added that watching Spain’s play is a pleasure, describing it as "zo technisch, vrolijk en heerlijk." He emphasized the technical quality and joyful nature of the team’s football. Kieft delivered his comments during a post‑match analysis on the Dutch broadcaster , focusing on Spain’s attacking options after the World Cup victory over Saudi Arabia.