Yamal does not mind lack of goals if Spain win World Cup 2026

Lamine Yamal delivered a standout performance in Spain's quarterfinal clash against Belgium despite failing to find the net. Named player of the match for his overall contributions, the Barcelona midfielder underscored his commitment to team success over personal statistics. In remarks following the victory, Yamal reflected on his limited goal output at the tournament, noting that a World Cup triumph would overshadow any individual scoring drought.

At 18 years old, Yamal has netted just once during the competition—a goal in Spain's group-stage demolition of Saudi Arabia on June 21. While contemporaries such as Lionel Messi, Kylian Mbappe, Erling Haaland, and Harry Kane have accumulated prolific tallies, Yamal has maintained a measured perspective on his role. He emphasized that his movements and positioning create space for teammates, allowing him to contribute meaningfully without necessarily scoring.

Yamal drew parallels to Spain's recent success at the European Championships, where he scored only once during the victorious campaign two years earlier. That single goal came in a semifinal victory against France. He expressed confidence that his current approach mirrors that successful formula, suggesting consistency in his playing style across major tournaments.

Beyond statistics, Yamal has established tournament records at just 18 years old, making his sixth World Cup appearance—the most by any player aged 18 or younger in the competition's history. As Spain advanced to face France in the semifinals, Yamal will turn 19 the day before that match, potentially marking another milestone in his emerging career.