2026 World Cup: Lamine Yamal criticizes Spanish media

21.06.26 FT World Cup

Spain

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Since their goalless draw against Cape Verde (0-0) last Monday in this 2026 World Cup, Spain has faced criticism ahead of their clash with Saudi Arabia this Sunday. And that’s getting on Lamine Yamal’s nerves.

Confronted with this baffling treatment, Lamine Yamal lashed out at his country’s media. "You journalists, you’re in such a rush to get your work done. We’re only at the first matchday—Spain picked up a point, Portugal too, Argentina won 3-0, France won 3-1... And you already think France and Argentina will reach the final?" the young FC Barcelona star remarked in an interview with El Pais.

"We’re only at the first matchday of the World Cup. I just don’t get it. Instead of enjoying the matches, you want to jump to conclusions right away. For you, Spain is in terrible shape right now, but those who really know football understand that’s not the case. Until July 19 (the date of the final, editor’s note), you won’t know who’s going to win, but you want the answer today," he added.

Joshua SOSSOU

Editorfr, en, ar

As a sports fan, and particularly a football fan, I've been putting my writing talent to good use for a number of years now to promote African talent and the continent's football in general. On Foot Africa, enjoy reading each of my lines.

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