Spain star Lamine Yamal admitted he was thrilled with his side’s commanding 3-0 victory over Austria in the World Cup Round of 32, but confessed there was one thing missing from his performance.
Named Player of the Match, the 18-year-old Barcelona sensation said he had hoped to get on the scoresheet or provide an assist, although Spain’s progression to the next round remained his biggest priority.
“I was just missing a goal or an assist,” Yamal said. “But as long as we win and advance to the next round, that’s what matters.”
Despite appearing subdued after the final whistle, Yamal insisted he was simply focused on the challenge ahead.
“I really am happy. That match is over, and now we have to think about the next one.”
The teenager also thanked fans for their support throughout the tournament, saying the warm reception he receives at every stadium gives him extra motivation.
“I’m very grateful for the affection shown to me in every stadium. It helps me step onto the pitch more motivated.”
With Spain now into the Round of 16, Yamal reiterated his ultimate ambition of lifting football’s biggest prize.
“There’s nothing better than the World Cup. When a kid dreams about football, they dream of playing in the World Cup. I want to keep advancing through the rounds and win it with Spain.”
Confident ahead of the knockout stages, he added:
“We aren’t afraid of any team. We are Spain. We have to prove it on the pitch.”
Yamal did, however, reveal a more emotional side when shown a video of his three-year-old brother celebrating Spain’s victory in the stands.
“It moves me to see my brother, my mother and my friends happy. My brother is like a son to me. I adore him.”
Spain’s impressive victory also marked their fourth consecutive clean sheet at the tournament, with goalkeeper Unai Simon praising the team’s near-flawless display.
“Today we came close to perfection from the 20th minute until the end of the match. We have to keep maintaining that level if we want to keep progressing.”
Asked whether he would rather face Portugal or Croatia in the Round of 16, Simon refused to express a preference.
“Both teams always make life very difficult for us. They press well, they’re dangerous from set pieces, and they have players capable of delivering spectacular balls into the box. I wouldn’t want to face either of them.”
Spain will discover their next opponents after Portugal and Croatia battle for a place in the Round of 16 later on Friday.
