Spain coach backs Lamine Yamal ahead of World Cup showdown with Portugal

Spain manager Luis de la Fuente has reaffirmed his backing for Barcelona forward Lamine Yamal ahead of the FIFA World Cup Round of 16 tie against Portugal. The Spain boss used his pre-match press conference to underline the teenager’s importance to La Roja’s attacking plans. De la Fuente began by acknowledging Portugal’s collective quality, stating: “Portugal have a tremendous team. We need to keep an eye on everyone.” He then shifted focus to Spain’s own strengths, adding: “We have total and absolute confidence in all our players.” Questions about Yamal’s defensive contributions were addressed directly. The coach said: “We don’t need to ask him to work harder; he’s always up for it. And he knows that’s part of his development. I’m absolutely delighted.” De la Fuente also revealed the teenager’s appetite for high-pressure moments. “Lamine loves these kinds of matches; he loves taking the initiative and shouldering the responsibility,” he said. “We need to keep his anxiety in check. Zero anxiety and 100 per cent motivation.”

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The Spain coach praised Yamal’s mentality further, noting: “He’s at a higher level of motivation and we’re celebrating that. It gives the coaches a great deal of peace of mind.” Attention then turned to the expected duel between Yamal and Portugal’s Nuno Mendes. De la Fuente said: “He’s given many players a hard time because he’s so good. But Lamine has also given many defenders a rough time.” The Spain manager concluded: “He just needs to be confident, not feel anxious, and always enjoy playing with the team in mind, as he always does. Let’s hope Lamine has an afternoon of glory.” With the World Cup knockout stages intensifying, Spain’s faith in Yamal reflects their broader belief in their squad’s collective ability to progress.