Yamal completely disregarded Belgium!

Lamine Yamal has caused irritation in Belgium after speaking as if Spain are already through to the 2026 World Cup semi-finals.

The 19-year-old discussed potential last-four opponents with Mundo Deportivo, naming France or Morocco as the likely next challenge and saying Spain would aim to reach the final whoever they met. Belgium, Spain’s quarter-final opponent, did not get a mention.

Yamal said Spain have good memories of facing France and that a meeting with Morocco would be particularly special. He added that both sides were high-level opponents and that Spain would try to beat either one to reach the final.

The Barcelona winger missed the start of the tournament because of injury but has worked his way back into the side. He has started Spain’s last four matches and played the full 90 minutes in the 1-0 win over Portugal in the round of 16.

His group-stage performances were not as bright as expected, but he goes into the knockout rounds with plenty of confidence.