Lamine Yamal: I Shine More as Finals Approach

Spain's star Lamine Yamal has stated that he feels at his best as the national team progresses through the knockout stages, noting that crucial matches provide him with greater motivation to deliver his best, away from the pressures of the group stage.

Yamal said: "The closer we get to the semi-finals, the final... the better I play." He added: "I have never been a player who shines in the group stage. I feel the most excitement starting from the Round of 16 and beyond."

The Barcelona winger explained that fans always remember what happens in major encounters, saying: "Clearly, people only remember these moments, not the group stage," referring to his desire to make a difference during the knockout rounds, where championships are decided and historic moments are created.

Yamal's comments come ahead of Spain's continued journey in the 2026 World Cup, with high hopes that the 18-year-old can lead La Roja in their pursuit of the title, following his impressive performances in the tournament.