Written by Megan Taylor, sports reporter covering international sports since 2020
Lamine Yamal shaped Spain’s 2-0 World Cup semifinal win over France at AT&T Stadium in Arlington, Texas, on Tuesday, earning the penalty that helped send the European champions into only their second final.
Marc Cucurella’s cross appeared destined for Lucas Digne in the 20th minute, but Lamine Yamal burst in front of the France defender inside the box. Lucas Digne caught the teenager’s left thigh, and Mikel Oyarzabal converted the resulting penalty two minutes later.
That breakthrough gave Luis de la Fuente’s side control of the contest, as Spain shut out France to book a place in the 2026 World Cup final.
Lamine Yamal Creates Danger Without Scoring
Lamine Yamal entered the tournament after more than a month out with a torn hamstring. He has still played in all seven of Spain’s matches, starting six, despite scoring only once against Saudi Arabia.
His influence extends beyond goals and assists. Opposing defenders regularly send two players toward the FC Barcelona winger, creating extra room for Mikel Oyarzabal, Dani Olmo and Spain’s advancing full-backs.
“I think the whole goal business has got into everyone’s heads, and we won the European Championship with me scoring just one goal. I only scored one goal then, and I’ve already scored one this time. They can rest easy.”
The teenager has also recorded a tournament-high 23 attempts at goal, according to FIFA’s official Spain team coverage.
Spain’s Control Silences France
Rodri Hernández, Fabián Ruiz and Dani Olmo controlled central areas, limiting the service available to Kylian Mbappé, Ousmane Dembélé and Michael Olise. Pedro Porro then doubled Spain’s advantage in the 58th minute.
“This team interprets to perfection every single phase of the game,” Luis de la Fuente said.
Spain have scored 13 goals and conceded only once during their run to the final. Lamine Yamal has seven goals in 31 international appearances, but his anticipation, movement and ability to occupy defenders have proved just as useful.