Yamal of Spain Deems Full World Cup Match Appearance Premature

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Spain’s forward #19 Lamine Yamal reacts during the 2026 World Cup Group H football match between Spain and Cape Verde at the Atlanta Stadium in Atlanta on June 15, 2026. (Photo by Roberto SCHMIDT / AFP)

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Spain star Lamine Yamal said Friday it is “too soon” for him to play a full 90 minutes as he continues his recovery from a hamstring injury, ahead of the European champions’ World Cup game against Saudi Arabia.

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Luis de la Fuente’s men were held to a surprise goalless draw by debutants Cape Verde in their Group H opener and will be hoping to get up and running on Sunday when they face the Saudis.

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On Monday, Barcelona winger Yamal made his first appearance since suffering the injury in mid-April, coming on as a 71st-minute substitute against Cape Verde .

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“It’s very early, it’s unnecessary,” the 18-year-old told Spanish public broadcaster RTVE about his readiness to play an entire game.

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“It’s not the time to play a whole match, but I can play whatever minutes the coach wants.”

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Coach De la Fuente told Radio Cope on Thursday that Yamal would be able to play “an hour” this weekend in Atlanta.

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Yamal could not inspire his teammates in the closing stages against a dogged Cape Verde, but his Barcelona teammate Pau Cabarsi backed him to deliver at the tournament.

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“We already know Lamine’s qualities,” Cabarsi said Friday.

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“Whether he comes on or not, he’ll help us as much as possible — but I think whoever plays in his place will do just as well.”

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Spain were the pre-tournament title favourites but they have not got past the last 16 at a World Cup since lifting the trophy for the first time in 2010.

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