Global acclaim for Lamine after Nations League masterclass boosts Ballon d’Or hopes | OneFootball

Global acclaim for Lamine after Nations League masterclass boosts Ballon d’Or hopes | OneFootball

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·30 September 2026

Global acclaim for Lamine after Nations League masterclass boosts Ballon d’Or hopes

Article image:Global acclaim for Lamine after Nations League masterclass boosts Ballon d’Or hopes

Lamine Yamal’s brace and assist in Spain’s 4-1 win over Croatia in Sevilla have drawn worldwide acclaim, with many framing it as a late surge in the Ballon d’Or race despite voting closing the night before.

He struck after two minutes, later created another and dominated throughout the Nations League contest. In France, L’Equipe hailed him as unstoppable yet did not reference the award.


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RMC Sport characterised it as a Ballon d’Or-level display, highlighting the Barcelona forward’s two goals and an assist in La Roja’s attacking show.

In England, BBC Sport said the 19-year-old had strengthened his Ballon d’Or case and noted the winner will be announced on 26 October.

Germany’s Bild framed the night as part of a broader battle for the Ballon d’Or and singled out Yamal as the standout performer. In Italy, Gazzetta dello Sport led with “Super Yamal”, while Corriere dello Sport underlined his double, including a near-post strike in the second half.

Portugal’s A Bola called it a magical night, stressing his two goals and assist and portraying him as a firm contender for the individual prize.

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