Lamine Yamal’s name is etched in European Championship history after his stunning goal for Spain against France in the semi-finals. At just 16 years and 362 days old, he became the youngest player ever to score in the tournament.
The strike itself was a thing of beauty. With Spain trailing 1-0, Yamal unleashed a curling effort from outside the box that nestled into the top corner, leaving fans and pundits alike in awe.
“A superstar is born,” declared former England striker Gary Lineker. “It was the moment of the match, possibly the moment of the tournament.”
Yamal’s composure under pressure was equally impressive. Despite the high stakes of a major tournament semi-final, he remained calm and collected, even joking with teammates before kick-off.
“We saw a touch of genius,” said Spain coach Luis de la Fuente. “He looks like a much more experienced player to be honest. We count on him and hopefully we can enjoy him for years to come.”
This wonderkid has already made waves at club level with Barcelona. He became their youngest starter, goalscorer, and the youngest scorer in La Liga during his breakthrough season.
Yamal turns 17 on July 13th, just a day before the Euro 2024 final, where Spain will face either England or the Netherlands. When asked about his birthday wish, the teenager simply replied, “win, win, win and win.”
His competitive spirit was further ignited by pre-match comments from French midfielder Adrien Rabiot, who said Yamal needed to “show more than he had so far at the tournament.” Yamal’s post-match celebration with the words “Speak now, speak now” seemed a clear response to Rabiot’s challenge.
Emerging for the post-match press conference at a time most teenagers would be fast asleep, Yamal displayed the same confidence he exhibited on the pitch. His focus is now firmly set on the final in Berlin.
“I don’t really mind who we face,” he said. “When you reach the final you have to play the best.”
Lamine Yamal’s journey is just beginning, but he has already announced himself on the world stage with a performance that will be remembered for years to come.
