Yamal nets 'dream' 1st World Cup goal as Spain answer critics - ESPN

ATLANTA — Lamine Yamal said he had realized a childhood dream after scoring in his first World Cup start against Saudi Arabia at Mercedes-Benz Stadium on Sunday.

The 18-year-old was brought into the Spain XI by coach Luis de la Fuente and needed just 10 minutes to score the opener in Atlanta.

Yamal tapped in Mikel Oyarzabal's cross at the back post before the Real Sociedad striker scored twice himself as Spain bounced back from their goalless draw with Cape Verde to thrash Saudi Arabia 4-0.

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«It's special,» Yamal, whose goal made him the eighth-youngest scorer in men's World Cup history, told DAZN.

«I've always dreamed about being at a World Cup and being able to score in my first start is a dream. I watched the last World Cup in class at school. Being here is great. I'm very proud for my mother and my family.»

Yamal was restricted to just the last 19 minutes against Cape Verde as the teenager continues to build up his fitness following a hamstring injury.

He was substituted at halftime against Saudi Arabia with the score already 3-0, but afterward De la Fuente allayed fears about the Barcelona forward's physical condition by insisting he could have stayed on.

«He would have played for longer, but considering the result and the match was under control we considered his contribution was enough,» De la Fuente told reporters.

«The next game we could have him for a full match. He's back and he's fit.»

Added Yamal to TVE: «I have a very good relationship [with De la Fuente]; there is complete trust. He asks how I'm doing and how I'm feeling, and I told him I'm ready to play — I'm here for Spain and will always give