Teamwork makes the dream work

Barcelona’s Yamal will get uncommon Bernabéu ovation in Brazil draw

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Barcelona teenager Lamine Yamal was given a standing ovation by the Bernabéu crowd as Spain drew 3-3 with Brazil on Tuesday, with Seleção coach Dorival Júnior tipping him to be one of many stars of the 2026 World Cup.

Yamal, 16, performed a job in all three Spain objectives, profitable a penalty, organising Dani Olmo for the second aim after which feeding Dani Carvajal with a cross with the surface of his boot within the construct as much as one other La Roja penalty.

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When he was substituted in stoppage time, supporters on the Bernabéu, the house of Barça’s El Clásico rivals Actual Madrid, rose to their ft to point out their appreciation for his efficiency.

“I simply attempt to stay relaxed and never be affected by something on the surface,” Yamal advised reporters when requested in regards to the reception he obtained. “Above all, it was a terrific sport for the followers and I’m completely happy as a result of we confirmed that we are able to compete in opposition to anybody.”

The worldwide pleasant additionally served as a showcase for an additional younger expertise, with Brazil’s 17-year-old striker Endrick coming off the bench to make it 2-2 early within the second half after teammate Rodrygo Goes had replied to objectives from Rodri and Olmo.

Endrick, who additionally scored the one aim at Wembley final weekend in Brazil’s win over England, will transfer to Madrid in the summertime with Dorival predicting he and Yamal will each have a huge effect on the sport within the coming years.

“I’m certain that each Endrick and Yamal, who I’ve seen on the Bernabéu tonight, will probably be two of the large stars of the subsequent World Cup in 2026,” he advised reporters.

Previous to the World Cup, which will probably be performed in america, Mexico and Canada, Spain will participate within the European Championships in Germany this summer season.

With six caps and two objectives to his title, Yamal is already establishing himself as a key participant for his nation. Newspaper Mundo Deportivo dubbed him “Laminho” after the Brazil sport, with Diario Sport highlighting the importance of the ovation coming on the Bernabéu.

He’s, due to this fact, anticipated to have an enormous function on the Euros, though Spain coach Luis de la Fuente tried to mood expectations barely.

“Lamine’s efficiency was excellent, however we’ve to watch out,” De la Fuente stated in a information convention. “That is the most effective recommendation we can provide these youngsters who’re so younger and so good. All we are able to ask is that they make their expertise accessible for the staff. And he does that.”

An excellent Yamal cross to Carvajal, which led to a second Spain penalty transformed by Manchester Metropolis‘s Rodri, regarded to have sealed the win the house aspect, however a fair later spot kick, scored by Lucas Paquetá after the Barça teen had gone off, salvaged a draw for Brazil.

Yamal made his debut for Barça as a 15-year-old final 12 months and has made 39 appearances in all competitions this season, contributing to 13 objectives.

He’s the youngest participant to ever characterize Spain and likewise the youngest to ever rating for the nation, netting on his debut in opposition to Georgia final September.