Luis de la Fuente hints at increased minutes for Lamine Yamal against Saudi Arabia
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The FC Barcelona forward made a short cameo against Cape Verde.
Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has issued an update on Lamine Yamal’s fitness. He has commented on how many minutes the forward can play in their second group stage game.
Minnows Cabo Verde held Spain to a goalless draw in one of the most dismal openers to the 2026 FIFA World Cup.
La Roja lacked Lamine Yamal’s offensive flair and put on a lacklustre attacking showing. Due to caution over his injury, the young player was benched; nonetheless, he eventually entered as a replacement.
There are requests for Lamine Yamal to start the next match against Saudi Arabia. It will be a crucial match for Luis de la Fuente’s team, following their draw against Cabo Verde.
Lamine Yamal is set for more minutes against Saudi Arabia
During a press conference, De la Fuente was questioned about Yamal’s fitness. The coach made a positive remark on his player’s fitness and said:
“We have to evaluate the situation with Lamine Yamal for our next match vs Saudi Arabia”.
Reporter: “So you think he can play around 45 minutes?”
La Fuente: “Surely, something like that”.
Lamine Yamal’s chances of making the starting lineup against Saudi Arabia are rising. Spain will now become more focused on winning their second World Cup group stage game.
The choice to use Gavi on the flank did not exactly work. It was clear after the game against Cabo Verde. Meanwhile, Mikel Oyarzabal and Ferran Torres produced next to nothing up front.
In order to gain an early breakthrough, Spain may benefit from Yamal’s flair and ability to make something out of nothing.
In the match against Cabo Verde, Yamal played for 19 minutes when he came on as a substitute. Thus, he ought to be well enough to start the match against Saudi Arabia.
When will Spain play Saudi Arabia?
They will face them on 21 June, 9:30 pm IST.
Where will the game be played?
Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta.
Will Lamine Yamal play?
Yes.
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After earning a bachelor's degree in mass media, Rajarshi began his career as a sports writer in 2019, driven by his passion for sports journalism. He has been working in the field for over six years. A devoted fan of Lionel Messi and Barcelona, Rajarshi has been involved in sports since childhood. Before turning his focus to journalism, he even represented his college at the state level. Along with covering football, he enjoys playing the game, watching movies, and experimenting with new recipes in his spare time, as cooking is one of his favorite hobbies.