Yamal: I Don't Feel Pressure Ahead of France Clash

Spain's star Lamine Yamal appeared calm and confident during the press conference ahead of the World Cup 2026 semi-final against France, stating that he feels no pressure before the most important match of his career so far.

He began by addressing his dip in form during the tournament: "You say I'm not at my best, so don't expect too much from me. But I hope tomorrow will be a great day; not scoring doesn't worry me, but scoring in matches like this is special. I'm ready for the challenge, and that's why I'm here."

The young player emphasized that the Spanish team has matured significantly in recent times, explaining: "We've gone through tough moments like the Cape Verde match, and since the Euros, we've been growing as a team. I don't feel any pressure."

Yamal also spoke about his brother, Kain Yamal, who has become a fan favorite, saying: "He doesn't realize what's happening. He acts like he always does at home, and when the cameras catch him, he starts joking and doing funny moves. Last time, he asked me if he could cut his hair."

Regarding Spain's performance in the last two matches, he stressed that the team's ability to endure, come back, and play with a collective spirit was key to reaching the semi-finals.

He commented on the controversy in France in recent days, asserting that football should be a means of bringing people together, not dividing them, saying: "We will play one of the most beautiful matches possible, and football exists to unite people, and Spain and France are an example of that."

When asked about the absence of Nico Williams and how individual matchups become his responsibility, he said: "The team has many high-quality players, and each one will utilize their strengths in the best way possible."

Yamal did not hide his ambition to win the title, stating: "Of course, we see ourselves as champions. It's tough, but we believe it like we did in 2010. Why not? Tomorrow's match is the most important of my career so far."

On his growing fame in the United States, he expressed his surprise, saying: "It's amazing that football gives me the chance to be recognized even in small towns in America. I never imagined that."

Regarding the number 19 he wears and the final being on the 19th of this month, he said: "Do you believe in numerology? And is the necklace a gift? No, because the Portugal coach said something like that, then Merino scored. As for the necklace... it's not a gift because I paid for it myself; it's a gift from me to myself."

When asked what message he would give to himself at ten years old, he replied: "Be yourself and enjoy; that's all."

Yamal concluded his statements by asserting that the match against France will be very balanced, saying: "The game will be very beautiful, and everyone wanted it to happen. We will attack and defend, and it will be very close."

Regarding his earlier statement that if anyone should be feared, it should be France, he said: "I don't mind the misunderstanding; I know you. I was asked if I was afraid of France, and I said no. We are the European champions; it's just football."