The Spanish forward spoke to the media in Dallas, hours before facing France in the World Cup semi-finals, and expressed confidence in reaching the final.
The press room at the Dallas Cowboys stadium was packed. Lamine Yamal, wearing the Spanish national team shirt, appeared before the media on the eve of the most important match of his young career: the World Cup semi-finals against France. The 18-year-old forward appeared calm, confident, and eager to make history.
Unfazed by France
Yamal did not shy away from any questions. When asked about the offensive potential of the French team, he responded naturally:
“They asked me if I was scared, and I said no. As Koundé said, football is taken as it is. And that’s it.”The Barcelona player asserted that France's attacking strength “could even be good for us.”
The winger sought to downplay the pressure of the match.
“I don’t feel pressure. You say I’m not at my best level, so you shouldn’t expect anything from me. But tomorrow I trust it will go well.”A statement that reflects the personality of the player, who has already played 50 international matches despite his youth.
The goal, the necklace, and his brother
Regarding goals, Yamal was candid:
“I’m not worried about goals, but it’s always special to score in matches like this. Obviously, I accept the challenge.”The forward, who has 12 goals with the national team, knows that a goal in the semi-finals would put him right in the running for the trophy.
There was also room for anecdotes. When asked about the necklace he wears, he clarified with a smile:
“It’s not a gift because I paid for it myself.”And about his younger brother, who has gone viral in the team's videos, he commented:
“He doesn’t realise. He does what he does at home, and when the camera focuses on him, he acts silly. I like that people care for him.”
The legacy of 2010 and integration
When asked if he sees himself as a world champion, Yamal responded with ambition:
“We see ourselves as champions like in 2010, why not?”A reference to the generation that won the World Cup in South Africa, which he now wants to emulate.
Furthermore, the footballer wanted to highlight the social value of sport:
“Tomorrow we are going to play a very beautiful match, but if football serves any purpose, it is to integrate. Football is that: integration.”A reflection that comes after former Prime Minister Mariano Rajoy referred to him in recent days.
For fans in the Community of Madrid, tonight's match is a must-watch event. In bars and homes across the region, from Alcalá de Henares to Móstoles, the clash against France will be passionately followed. The atmosphere in Madrid's fan clubs is one of high anticipation, and many have organised gatherings to watch the match together. The game, which kicks off at 21:00 hours, will be broadcast live on La 1 de TVE and on RTVE's digital platforms.
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