World Cup 2026: Eden Hazard sees shades of himself in Lamine Yamal ahead of Portugal showdown

Former Eden Hazard believes Lamine Yamal has the talent and mentality to light up the World Cup after drawing comparisons between the teenage star and his own breakthrough years.

The former Belgium captain lavished praise on the 18-year-old following Spain’s commanding 3-0 victory over Austria in the Round of 32, a result that kept La Roja’s hopes of winning their first World Cup since 2010 firmly alive.

Although Yamal did not get on the scoresheet, his movement, creativity and work rate once again proved central to Spain’s attacking display as Luis de la Fuente’s side booked a heavyweight last-16 clash against Portugal.

“He reminds me of when I started”

Speaking to Stake, Hazard admitted he sees similarities between Yamal’s rapid rise and his own emergence as a teenager.

“Lamine Yamal reminds me a bit of when I started playing. I was around the same age and everyone expected a lot from me.

“But in the end, if he enjoys himself on the pitch the way he knows how to, I can definitely see him having a great World Cup.

“He’s the kind of player people love to watch. That’s what football is all about, you have to enjoy yourself and make people dream.”

The endorsement from one of Belgium’s greatest players adds to the growing admiration surrounding Yamal, who has become one of the standout young performers at the tournament despite his age.

Spain ready for Portugal test

Spain’s next challenge comes against Portugal in Dallas, where De la Fuente’s men will attempt to take another step towards World Cup glory.

Yamal insists confidence within the squad remains high, although he believes there is still room for improvement before the knockout contest.

“We have to keep improving, in our play and intensity, but we know the quality we have and we aren’t afraid of any team; we are Spain. We have to show it on the field, but we have faith in ourselves,” he said.

Focus on victory, not Ronaldo

The meeting with Portugal could see Yamal come up against legendary forward Cristiano Ronaldo, but the teenager says his attention is fixed solely on helping Spain progress.

“It would be an honor to play against Cristiano (Ronaldo), obviously, but I’m focused on winning the game and I don’t care who gets through.”