If Spain has a whiff of a chance to upset France this afternoon in the World Cup semi-finals, a lot of that will rest on the shoulders of a young man who just turned 19.<\/p>\n
Lamine Yamal is Spain\u2019s biggest game-breaker, their player most capable of personal brilliance when a game is tight.<\/p>\n
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente spoke yesterday about telling the young Yamal to enjoy the moment today and not get overwhelmed by the pressure.<\/p>\n
Yamal came into the tournament with a hamstring issue, which has held him back somewhat. He has just the one goal so far, in six appearances. However, he was named player of the match in Spain\u2019s 2-1 quarterfinal win over Belgium.<\/p>\n
In his recently completed club season, Yamal had 16 goals and 11 assists in La Liga, a league-leading 11 assists, and was the 2025-26 La Liga Player of the Season.<\/p>\n
\u201cI\u2019ve told him there is no need to worry \u2013 let him enjoy himself,\u201d the coach said, per Reuters. \u201cI\u2019m sure Lamine\u2019s great World Cup day is still to come. I hope it\u2019s [today] and, if not, then in the final, if we can get there.\u201d<\/p>\n
Nice bit of coaching there, because the pressure is<\/i> on Yamal, going up against an impressive French team. If Spain has a chance of overcoming that French attacking line and its sheer offensive brilliance, they are going to need the personal brilliance of Yamal more on display, his ability to beat defenders one-on-one, his craftiness and skill, creating chances for teammates.<\/p>\n
Those teammates are led by Mikel Oyarzabal, Spain\u2019s leading scorer in the tournament, with four goals. Left-wing Nico Williams loves to attack fullbacks with his speed, and attacking midfielder Pedri brings vision and passing.<\/p>\n