Join on WhatsApp
Join on Telegram
Rabat – Spain star Lamine Yamal has insisted he is approaching Tuesday’s 2026 FIFA World Cup semifinal against France without fear, saying his focus is on helping La Roja secure a place in the final after celebrating his 19th birthday.
Speaking at Spain’s pre-match press conference, Yamal was asked about his birthday celebrations after arriving wearing a diamond-encrusted necklace. The teenager joked that, despite the attention surrounding the accessory, the only gift he truly wants is a victory over France.
“I haven’t received many gifts yet. The best gift would be a win on Tuesday and a trip to New York,” he said, referring to the venue of the World Cup final.
Although several players have starred in front of goal throughout the tournament, Yamal has scored just once so far. However, the Barcelona winger made it clear that individual statistics are not his priority as Spain prepares for one of its biggest matches of the competition.
“I don’t focus on goals, but it’s always special to score in a match like this. I accept the challenge. That’s why I came here,” Yamal said, promising that the semifinal clash with France will be “a beautiful match for the spectators.”
The 19-year-old described the clash as one of the tournament’s standout fixtures, calling it “the game everyone was waiting for.”
Despite the magnitude of the occasion, Yamal has pledged to remain calm and confident, emphasizing that Spain’s focus is on delivering its best performance and securing a place in the World Cup final.
