Spain are hoping teenage sensation Lamine Yamal will celebrate his 19th birthday in style by helping La Roja overcome France in Tuesday’s FIFA World Cup semi-final in Dallas, Texas, and book a place in the tournament’s final. Coach Luis de la Fuente believes the young forward’s defining moment at the competition could arrive against the French or, if Spain progress, in the championship match.
Speaking at a pre-match press conference at Dallas Stadium on Monday, De la Fuente urged Yamal to enjoy the occasion rather than feel burdened by the expectations surrounding him.
“I’ve told him there is no need to worry. He should enjoy the moment. I’m sure Lamine’s great World Cup day is still to come. I hope it is tomorrow and, if not, then in the final if we get there.”
Yamal, who recently recovered from a hamstring injury sustained while playing for Barcelona, has gradually regained top form during the tournament. Although he has scored only once so far, his performances have earned widespread praise for his creativity, pace and influence in Spain’s attacking play.
Spain head into the semi-final full of confidence after defeating France 5-4 in last year’s UEFA Nations League semi-final. However, De la Fuente warned that the previous result would have little bearing on Tuesday’s contest, noting that both teams have improved since that dramatic encounter.
“We learned a lot from those matches, just as they did. We’ll try to repeat the situations that worked in our favour and avoid those that didn’t.”
The Spanish coach described the clash as a battle between two contrasting football philosophies, adding that his players must remain alert to France’s dangerous counter-attacking threats led by Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise.
Despite suggestions that Spain enter the match as favourites, De la Fuente dismissed such labels, insisting they would have no impact once the game begins.
“Whether we are favourites or not means nothing. We are two great national teams and the only thing that matters is what happens on the pitch.”
Yamal also addressed reporters in Dallas, saying he feels no pressure ahead of what he described as the biggest match of his career. The Barcelona star stressed that Spain fear no opponent and remains focused on helping his country reach the final rather than pursuing personal glory.
“We’re European champions and we’re not afraid of any opponent or any match.”
“I’m very calm. I just want tomorrow to arrive because it’s going to be a great game. When you give everything for the team, you don’t feel pressure.”
The teenager also used the occasion to call for unity through football after being asked about controversial remarks made by former Spanish Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy regarding the French team.
“If football serves any purpose, it’s to bring people together. France and Spain are examples of integration.”
Spain and France enter the semi-final unbeaten, with the winners advancing to the World Cup final to face either Argentina or England. Both nations are former world champions, adding further significance to one of the tournament’s most anticipated matches.
