World Cup 2026: Spain bank on fearless Lamine Yamal for Portugal clash as De la Fuente says ‘he loves these kinds of games’

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has thrown his full support behind rising star Lamine Yamal ahead of a heavyweight World Cup last-16 clash with Portugal, insisting the teenager thrives under pressure.

Spain face Portugal in a mouth-watering knockout tie on Monday at the home of the Dallas Cowboys, with De la Fuente confident his young winger will rise to the occasion once again.

“He loves these kinds of games,” the Spain coach said, underlining the growing belief inside the camp that Yamal is built for the biggest stages.

The 18-year-old Barcelona forward did not find the net in Spain’s emphatic 3-0 win over Austria in the previous round, but his performance drew widespread attention for its maturity, creativity and fearless approach in possession.

“He likes responsibility” – De la Fuente hails mentality

De la Fuente expanded on the youngster’s mentality, stressing that Yamal embraces pressure rather than shies away from it.

“He’s very well motivated, I know that Lamine loves these kinds of games.

He likes to be the focus, he likes the responsibility, he likes to take the initiative. This is good, he’s proactive.”

The Spain boss added that watching the teenager’s rapid rise has been a privilege, highlighting the rare combination of talent and temperament he brings to the squad.

“It’s truly a pleasure to see a footballer that has these features.”

Yamal, who arrived at the tournament carrying a recent hamstring issue, has steadily grown into the competition alongside a Spain side finding rhythm at the perfect time.

Spain’s growing momentum after early setback

Spain’s campaign initially lacked fluency after a goalless draw against debutants Cape Verde, a result that raised early questions about their sharpness in attack.

However, De la Fuente’s side have since responded emphatically, recording three consecutive victories without conceding a single goal, re-establishing themselves as serious contenders.

Yamal’s influence has mirrored that progression, with the youngster becoming increasingly influential in attacking phases while also embracing the defensive discipline demanded by the coaching staff.

Tactical maturity ahead of Portugal showdown

With Portugal boasting a technically gifted squad, Spain’s preparation has placed significant emphasis on structure, balance and responsibility across the pitch.

De la Fuente stressed that Yamal’s development is not limited to attacking output alone, but also his understanding of defensive duties in high-pressure matches.

“He’s always willing to do more. He is very well aware that in his growth, this is something that is required of him,” the coach said on Sunday.

As Spain prepare for one of their toughest tests of the tournament, confidence within the camp remains high, with belief that their young star will once again embrace the spotlight.

“I am very pleased from what he’s doing. The entire team is very pleased with what they’re doing.”