Spain’s Yamal says it’s too soon to play a full match at the World Cup

Spain forward Lamine Yamal said on Friday that it is “too soon” for him to play a full 90 minutes as he continues to recover from a hamstring injury. The statement comes ahead of the European champions’ World Cup match against Saudi Arabia.

Spain were held to a surprise 0‑0 draw by debutants Cape Verde in their Group H opener and will be hoping to regain momentum on Sunday when they face the Saudis.

Yamal returned to the pitch on Monday, making his first appearance since the injury in mid‑April. He came on as a 71st‑minute substitute in the match against Cape Verde.

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

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

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

Yamal was unable to influence the closing stages of the game against a determined Cape Verde side, but his Barcelona teammate Pau Cabassi expressed confidence in his ability to contribute at the tournament.

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

“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.”

Spain entered the tournament as pre‑tournament title favourites, but they have not progressed beyond the last 16 at a World Cup since winning the trophy for the first time in 2010.

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