Atlanta, June 21: Spain’s coach Luis de la Fuente has not yet clarified whether star player Lamine Yamal will be included in the starting lineup for the upcoming FIFA World Cup 2026 match against Saudi Arabia.
Spain’s performance in their first match against Cape Verde did not meet expectations, ending in a goalless draw. Yamal did not start in that match and was brought on as a substitute in the second half. During a press conference, Coach de la Fuente confirmed that Yamal is fully fit and in good form.
He mentioned that the player is eager to contribute positively to the team and could play a crucial role if needed. However, he did not specify whether Yamal would start against Saudi Arabia or come off the bench again. The coach indicated that the final decision would be made based on the team’s strategy before the match.
According to Xinhua, de la Fuente stated, “He is fine, which is the best news. We will assess his condition before the match and develop a solid plan. We always prioritize the health of our players. If Lamine steps onto the field, he should have a positive impact. Our goal is to win as a team.”
The coach added, “If we had won against Cape Verde 2-0, the narrative would be entirely different. There is no anxiety within the team. Winning the upcoming match is essential, and the players are motivated. External criticism often boosts their motivation. We have analyzed the match against Cape Verde with a mindset for improvement. We will maintain this approach and see if we make any changes later.”
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