World Cup 2026: Spain youngster Lamine Yamal declared fit for Cape Verde clash

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente says teenage sensation Lamine Yamal is in excellent condition ahead of their 2026 World Cup opener against Cape Verde.

Yamal, who was named as the La Liga Player of the Season has been sidelined for several weeks after picking up an injury setback while in action for Barcelona.

As Spain gears up for the World Cup opener on Monday, Luis de la Fuente has disclosed Yamal is in a perfect condition to feature in the Group H showdown.

“Lamine is in perfect conditions,” De la Fuente said when asked about the player’s readiness for the tournament opener.

The update will come as welcome news for Spanish supporters, who view Yamal as one of the team’s most important attacking weapons heading into the global showpiece in North America.

Despite being only 18 years old, Yamal has already established himself as one of the most exciting talents in world football. His dazzling dribbling ability, creativity, pace and composure in the final third have made him a key figure for both club and country.

Spain are expected to rely heavily on the winger’s attacking influence as they seek to make a strong start against a determined Cape Verde side that will be eager to cause an upset on football’s biggest stage.

De la Fuente’s confidence in Yamal reflects the player’s importance to the national team setup. Since breaking into the senior squad, the youngster has consistently impressed with mature performances beyond his years and has become one of the first names on the team sheet.

The coach is expected to field a strong lineup for the encounter, with Yamal likely to play a leading role alongside Spain’s experienced core as they target all three points.

Spain enter the tournament among the favourites to challenge for the title after a series of impressive performances in recent years. The 2010 world champions boast a squad packed with young talent and experienced internationals, creating a blend that many believe can go deep into the competition.

For Cape Verde, the challenge will be to contain a Spanish attack featuring some of the most technically gifted players in the tournament. Special attention is likely to be given to Yamal, whose ability to change games with moments of brilliance has become one of his trademarks.

With De la Fuente confirming that the Barcelona star is fully fit, Spain will head into the clash with renewed confidence as they look to launch their World Cup campaign in style.

All eyes will now be on Yamal when Spain take to the field, with fans eager to see whether the young winger can continue his remarkable rise on football’s grandest stage.