Yamal sticks to bold stance as Spain prepare for France in World Cup semis

DALLAS, United States (AFP) — Freshly 19, Lamine Yamal told reporters on Monday that Spain will approach their World Cup semi-final against France without intimidation.

The Barcelona attacker had stirred talk after La Roja’s 2-1 quarter-final win over Belgium last week, when he was reported as arguing that France — not Spain — should feel uneasy given how recent meetings with La Roja have gone. At Monday’s media session he looked at ease as he revisited those remarks.

“I was asked if I was afraid of France, and I said no,” Yamal explained. “We are European champions. It’s simply football,” the teenager explained.

He marked turning 19 by purchasing a heavy, gem-studded necklace, which he wore while facing the press. Reaching Sunday’s World Cup final, he suggested, would matter more than any birthday haul.

“I haven’t received many gifts yet. The best gift would be a win on Tuesday and a trip to New York,” he said.

Unlike several leading forwards who have scored freely at this tournament, Yamal has netted only once so far — and he is keen to increase that total when Spain meet France.

“I don’t focus on goals, but it’s always special to score in a match like this. I accept the challenge. That’s why I came here,” Yamal said, vowing a “beautiful match for the spectators.”

“It’s the game everyone was waiting for,” he added.

He conceded the size of Tuesday’s occasion yet kept a cool outlook.

“There are far more difficult situations in life than a football match, so I’m calm,” he said. “I don’t feel any extra pressure; I’ll go out and play like always and give my all for the team.”