Nuno Mendes: My Thoughts on Yamal, My Goal is to Help the National Team

Nuno Mendes, Portugal's left-back, spoke about the upcoming clash against Spain in the Round of 16 of the 2026 World Cup, and commented on the anticipated battle with Lamine Yamal.

The young Spanish star praised the Portuguese defender, saying: "Nuno Mendes is one of the best left-backs in the world. I enjoy playing against him because it's a real battle face-to-face."

Mendes remarked: "I watched the video where Lamine talked about me. He is a player with great quality, and we will face each other in what will be a fantastic match. I love playing against him; he is still young but has exceptional potential and can make a difference."

He added: "It will be a tough match against a team that knows how to keep possession and play collectively, so teamwork will be the most important factor. If we manage to prevent the ball from reaching Lamine, that will be a good start for us."

Regarding the recent praise he has received as one of the best left-backs in the world, he said: "It's always great to hear such words, and I'm happy about it. I have met Lamine before and we talked a little; he is a wonderful person and a special player, but I am focused only on my goal, which is to help the Portugal national team."

Portugal is set to face Spain on Monday in a highly anticipated World Cup knockout match.