Lamine Yamal Didn't Score, but a Sneaky Play Helped Spain Beat France in the World Cup Semifinals
The 19-year-old Barcelona star helped draw the penalty that put Spain in control, and La Roja advanced 2-0 over France.
- On Tuesday, Spain defeated France 2-0 in the World Cup semifinal in Arlington, Texas, advancing to the final as La Roja moved past the tournament favorite.
- Coach Luis de la Fuente noted Yamal's value extends beyond scoring on his 19th birthday, as the Barcelona star has prioritized team success over personal statistics.
- Yamal's pressure forced a critical penalty call after a challenge to his thigh, allowing Mikel Oyarzabal to score and put Spain in the lead for good.
- "Everyone has the same direction," Oyarzabal said regarding squad unity, noting the team's collective approach proved essential as players contributed their strengths to the team.
- At 19 and 1 day old, Yamal described his mindset on Monday, emphasizing he plays to his natural level and gives "always at the service of the team, always to the maximum.
34 Articles
34 Articles
The French national team could not prevail against the Spaniards despite the star cast. Lamine Yamal showed his best performance in this tournament so far in the semi-finals. "I found him very, very good," says Thomas Helmer.
The Spanish pearl provoked the penalty that opened the victory and will contest its first final of a World Cup with 19 years and 6 days
Spain's victory against France by 0-2 in the World Cup semifinals triggered a wave of satirical, critical and humorous memes that soon went viral on social networks.
Six times, same result and counting! Lamine Yamal continues to be Kylian Mbappe's knockout nemesis
Lamine Yamal continued his flawless knockout streak, overcoming Kylian Mbappé as Spain triumphed over France 2-0 in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semifinal. This impressive win guarantees Spain a spot in the finals. Remarkably, Yamal has now achieved six consecutive victories against Mbappé in knockout rounds, showcasing the young talent's resilience in high-stakes matches.
76th minute in the World Cup semi-finals, Frenchman Kylian Mbappé attacks and is stopped by Lamine Yamal per Grätsche. An offensive star against another. It is a picture that tells a lot about Spain's quality at this World Cup.
Lamine Yamal perceived an opportunity and tore off to Lucas Digne, the French defender trying to clear a ball that he had just clumsily nodded into his own area.
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