JUST IN: Lamine Yamal issues positive fitness for Spain vs Saudi Arabia FIFA World Cup 2026 match
(Courtesy : Getty)
Yamal made his World Cup debut in the draw against Cape Verde.
Spain’s FIFA World Cup 2026 campaign made a stuttering start after being held to a goalless draw against Cape Verde. However, the only thing that has dominated headlines is the injury status of Lamine Yamal, who did not start the opening match due to injury.
Yamal suffered a hamstring injury in his left biceps femoris muscle at the end of Barcelona’s La Liga campaign. This led to concerns that the youngster might miss the World Cup, but he was included in Luis de la Fuente’s 26-player squad.
Ahead of the opening game, de la Fuente said that “Lamine is in perfect condition.” Although not fit enough to start the match against Cape Verde, he came on as a substitute in the 71st minute after the Spanish forward line had misfired throughout the game.
However, the Barcelona player could not make much difference in the outcome of the game, with the World Cup debutants holding out for a historic point against La Roja.
Also Read: Luis de la Fuente hints at increased minutes for Lamine Yamal against Saudi Arabia
Lamine Yamal gives fitness update
The two-time champions face a crucial match against Saudi Arabia on June 21, and calls have grown for Yamal to start the match on the wing in place of Ferran Torres. This follows media reports that the medical department feels that he is ready to play for 45 minutes. The youngster himself provided an update on his match fitness.
“I am fine, I feel good, but it is very soon, it is unnecessary, I have an adaptation process, it is not the time to play a whole match, but I can play the minutes that the coach wants,” he told RTVE.
The winger also dismissed the concerns about Spain’s draw against Cape Verde, but insisted that La Roja must win the next game in Atlanta to stay in a favourable position in the group.
“There was a fuss about a draw, and in the end, many teams have drawn; it doesn’t mean anything,” he said. “For me, winning 6-0 in the first match is pointless. Obviously, we have to win on Sunday because we’re among the favourites, and we have to win.”
Will Lamine Yamal start in Spain vs Saudi Arabia?
Media reports suggest he could play up to 45 minutes, with calls growing for him to replace Ferran Torres on the wing against Saudi Arabia.
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Sushruta has spent over two years covering football, with a particular focus on Indian and international competitions. Alongside football, he has reported on a variety of sports, bringing curiosity and perspective to every story. When he’s not following the action, he can usually be found binge-watching movies or getting lost in a good book.