Barcelona star gives his verdict on the upcoming duel between Lamine Yamal and Nuno Mendes | OneFootball

Several FC Barcelona stars are still competing for glory at the FIFA World Cup and remain fully committed to their respective teams. One such player is Lamine Yamal, who just so happens to be Barça’s crown jewel while also being Spain’s main man at this tournament.

Having showcased his class just recently against Austria, the 18-year-old winger has been performing at a high level so far. However, his biggest test now arrives in the form of Nuno Mendes and Portugal, and it is a duel that has a history of making things exciting.

Yet, while Mendes is clearly a threat and a major obstacle, fellow Barcelona player and Spanish compatriot Dani Olmo believes that the challenge will drive Yamal to greater heights, as quoted by Mundo Deportivo:

“He’s a great full-back, very physical. He’s a good opponent for Lamine, but that also motivates Lamine a lot. He’s mentally very strong.”

He further emphasised Yamal’s mindset and confirmed that the young winger is now fully ready to help the team in this crucial stage of the World Cup:

“He’s focused on doing what he has to do on the pitch, he’s back to 100%, and we’re happy to have him in that condition.”

This particular Round of 16 clash is arguably the most exciting one on paper, and it is greatly enhanced in terms of the excitement due to the clash between Yamal and Mendes. While it remains to be seen who comes out on top, it surely promises to be a grand encounter of two top teams and two players at the top of their game.

The winner of this particular clash will then guarantee their place among the final eight teams left in the tournament. So far, teams like France, Morocco, and most recently Norway following their win over Brazil, have guaranteed their place in the next round of the tournament and Spain will be looking to join them as well.