Barcelona star Lamine Yamal lays down marker before World Cup semi-final vs France: ‘I’m not afraid’ | OneFootball

The spotlight rarely drifts away from Lamine Yamal, but on the eve of Spain’s World Cup semi-final against France, the Barcelona teenager showed exactly why he has become the face of a new generation of Spanish football.

Fresh from celebrating his 19th birthday, Yamal walked into the pre-match press conference carrying the weight of expectation that comes with being Spain’s biggest attacking threat. 

Yet there was no sign of nerves. Instead, the Barcelona winger projected calm confidence as he looked ahead to what he described as the most important match of his career.

With a place in the World Cup final at stake, the young forward made his ambitions crystal clear.

“My wish is to win and reach the final in New York.”

Lamine Yamal welcomes the challenge against France

Although Yamal’s performances have attracted enormous attention throughout the tournament, the teenager insisted he is not measuring success by goals alone.

“I’m not worried about goals, but it’s always special to score in matches like this. 

Lamine Yamal is not afraid of France. (Photo by Florencia Tan Jun/Getty Images)

“I accept the challenge – that’s what I’ve come here for – and tomorrow will be a very special day,” said the Barcelona forward.

The youngster also addressed the discussion surrounding his recent comments about France, insisting his confidence should not be mistaken for disrespect.

“It hasn’t been misinterpreted. Obviously, I’m not afraid of France. 

“We’re the European champions and we don’t fear any match. They’re taking it as just a football match, and that’s it,” he explained.

Already dreaming of World Cup glory

Furthermore, the Barcelona forward openly admitted that no previous match in his career compares to the magnitude of the challenge awaiting him.

“It’s the most important match I’ll ever play. We’re all really excited, especially me,” he added.

Lamine Yamal is synonymous with confidence. (Photo by Carl Recine/Getty Images)

“Obviously, I see myself as a world champion. We all see ourselves repeating what happened in 2010. Why not?

“It’ll be a great match for the spectators. Both teams will have their moments. It’ll be a very even contest,” he remarked.

Yamal also dismissed suggestions that the pressure surrounding the match could affect his performance.

“I don’t feel any pressure. I play as I know how; I just give everything I’ve got for the team, to the very best of my ability. 

“When you give it your all, I don’t feel any pressure.”

He later added another confident message ahead of the semi-final. “You lot say I’m not at my best, so you shouldn’t expect anything from me. But tomorrow I’m confident it’ll go well,” he concluded.

Source: Mundo Deportivo