Yamal Stirs France With Cheeky Instagram

Lamine Yamal shared a clip on Instagram showing his goal against France in last year’s European Championship, just hours before facing them again in the Nations League semi-final.

The timing hasn’t gone unnoticed. French newspaper L’Équipe suggested the post was a dig, accusing the Spanish teenager of mocking Les Bleus. “The prodigy has kicked things off,” the paper wrote, calling him a fan of “provocative Instagram stories.”

Lamine Yamal posted a picture of his goal against France in the Euros semi-final.

Yamal’s post brought back memories of the Euros semi-final, where France had the lead until the then-16-year-old pulled Spain level with a thunderous strike. Dani Olmo later sealed the comeback, sending Spain to the final in Berlin.

The build-up to that match was just as fiery. France’s Adrien Rabiot had warned Yamal he’d “need to do more” if he wanted to reach the final. The young forward responded on the pitch, scoring what many called one of the goals of the tournament.

Now, as Spain prepare to face France again in Stuttgart, Yamal’s confidence is clear. The message might not have been direct, but the intent feels pointed. And while some in France saw the post as provocative, others say it’s just a teenager enjoying the moment.

Yamal, who has been described as one of football’s brightest talents, seems unfazed by the noise. He’ll be back on the pitch tonight, facing a side he’s already hurt once before.

France and Spain meet on Thursday night in Stuttgart with a place in the UEFA Nations League final up for grabs. Both sides are eyeing a second title, which would make them the first team to win the competition twice.

Spain arrive with momentum. Luis de la Fuente’s side lifted the trophy in 2023 and followed it up with a Euro 2024 triumph, beating France along the way in a thrilling semi-final. Sixteen-year-old Lamine Yamal lit up that encounter with a stunning long-range strike, and the Barcelona winger is set to start again alongside Nico Williams on the left flank.

France also needed penalties to reach the last four, edging past Croatia after a 2-2 aggregate draw. But they arrive with significant injury concerns. Jules Kounde, William Saliba, Dayot Upamecano and Eduardo Camavinga are all unavailable, leaving Didier Deschamps with a makeshift defence.

Despite that, France boast serious attacking talent. Kylian Mbappe will start, while Ousmane Dembele and Michael Olise are pushing for places in the front three. Youngster Desire Doue is likely to feature from the bench.

Kick-off is at 8 p.m. Moroccan time (GMT+1)