Spain’s young star Lamine Yamal has sent a bold message to France after helping his team book a place in the FIFA World Cup 2026 semi-finals. Following Spain’s 2-1 victory over Belgium in the quarter-finals, the Barcelona winger said France should be more concerned about facing Spain than the other way around.
Spain’s win has set up one of the biggest matches of the tournament, with the reigning European champions preparing to take on the 2018 FIFA World Cup winners for a place in the final.
Yamal Confident Before France Showdown
Speaking after the match, Yamal showed complete confidence despite France’s impressive run in the tournament.
“I believe if France has to fear anyone, it should be us,” Yamal said after Spain defeated Belgium. He also reminded everyone that Spain had already knocked France out on their way to winning the UEFA European Championship.
“We were the ones who knocked them out before,” the teenager added.
Yamal made it clear that Spain respect France’s quality. However, he insisted that his team is not afraid of any opponent.
“We don’t fear anyone. They are one of the best teams in the world, but we are also one of the best. We’ll see what happens,” he said.
Spain’s 1st World Cup Semi-final Since 2010
Spain secured a hard-fought 2-1 victory over Belgium on Friday to qualify for their first FIFA World Cup semi-final since lifting the trophy in South Africa in 2010.
Although Belgium fought strongly throughout the match, Spain managed to find the winning goal late in the game. Yamal played a key role in the victory and was named the Player of the Match for his outstanding performance.
The result keeps Spain’s dream of winning a second World Cup title alive.
Yamal Believes Spain Controlled the Match
Despite the close scoreline, Yamal felt Spain deserved to win comfortably.
“I think we were much better than Belgium,” he said.
The winger explained that Spain often face teams that prefer to defend deep instead of attacking. According to him, that makes matches more difficult because Spain have to work harder to create chances.
“It looks like we play beautiful football, but the reality is different. Every team sits back against us. Nobody really goes toe-to-toe with us. In the end, though, we got the win,” Yamal explained.
His comments reflected Spain’s confidence in their style of play as they continue their journey in the tournament.
Goals Are Not Yamal’s Main Focus
While players like Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland and Harry Kane have grabbed headlines with their goals, Yamal is not worried about his own numbers.
The 18-year-old admitted that every forward wants to score. However, he believes helping the team is far more important than individual achievements.
“Obviously I want to score, but I don’t go onto the pitch thinking only about goals. I think about helping the team,” Yamal said.
He also believes that winning the World Cup would matter much more than personal statistics.
“If we win the World Cup, nobody will remember whether I scored goals or not. The important thing is winning,” he added.
Team Success Comes Before Individual Records
Yamal also highlighted how his movement creates space for teammates, even when he does not score himself.
“I know I can contribute even if I don’t score. My movements attract defenders, and I do everything I can to help the team,” he said.
His mature approach has impressed football fans throughout the tournament. Even without a high goal tally, Yamal has remained one of Spain’s most influential attacking players.
Spain vs France Promises a Blockbuster Semi-final
The semi-final between Spain and France is expected to be one of the biggest matches of the FIFA World Cup 2026.
France have looked dominant throughout the tournament, producing convincing wins against several strong opponents. Meanwhile, Spain have relied on teamwork, disciplined football and the creativity of young stars like Lamine Yamal.
With a place in the World Cup final at stake, football fans around the world can expect an intense battle between two of Europe’s biggest football nations.