11.7.2026
Spain striker Lamine Yamal said their 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final clash against France Tuesday in Dallas USA will be a testy battle that could go either way.
Spain on Friday beat Belgium 2-1 to set up the tie that will two of the tournament’s strongest team so far go head-to-head. France are chasing a third consecutive FIFA World Cup final appearance while Spain aim to continue their recent dominance over Les Bleus, having won their last two meetings.
“There are two possibilities: either they reach three World Cup finals in a row, or we beat them three times. I don’t know what might happen, but we’re not afraid at all,” Yamal said.
“I’m really happy with the win. Back in the semi-finals again. That’s what we came here for – to play these matches and win them. Now it’s time to rest and start thinking about the match against France.”
Despite scoring only once at the tournament so far, the 18-year-old said his focus remains on helping Spain rather than pursuing individual statistics.
“Obviously I wanted to score because it helps the team, but I don’t go out onto the pitch thinking about that. If I win the World Cup, I don’t think anyone’s going to remember how many goals I’ve scored or missed.”
“If we win, we’ll all be happy. If I win the player of the match award, all the better, but above all, I want the team to win.”
The Spain winger also dismissed concerns about his goal return by pointing to the team’s success.
“I think the whole goal business has got into everyone’s heads, and we won the European Championship with me scoring just one goal. I only scored one goal then, and I’ve already scored one this time. They can rest easy.”
Lamine Yamal...gathering momentum with Spain.