Spanish sensation Lamine Yamal has added another significant milestone to his fast-growing career as he became the youngest European player ever to record 10 wins at major international tournaments, eclipsing the record previously held by the French captain Kylian Mbappe.The 18-year-old scored the feat in Spain’s convincing 3-0 win over Austria in the FIFA World Cup Round of 16, helping La Roja progress to the Round of 16 as they continue their dream debut at football’s biggest tournament. At 18 years and 354 days, Yamal became the youngest European player to finish on the winning side of 10 matches at major tournaments, breaking Mbappe’s previous record by a staggering five years. The French superstar reached the milestone at 23 years and 355 days, highlighting the exceptional pace of the Yamal ascent.Despite being denied a goal against Austria, the Barcelona winger once again proved to be Spain’s most dangerous attacking outlet.
Yamal ends Mbappe’s remarkable failure despite injury
Yamal entered the World Cup under a fitness cloud after suffering a hamstring injury two months ago while playing for Barcelona.His recovery has been gradual, but the teenager is now starting to resemble the tight-knit winger who has taken European football by storm.Against Austria, Yamal had six attempts on goal and constantly tormented the opposing defense, earning man of the match honors despite not being on the scoresheet.I didn’t score a goal, but I’m very happy that we made it to the next round, said Yamal after the victory.The youngster also revealed that he finally feels in full shape.“Little by little, I’m starting to feel like myself again, I’m making the runs and dribbles I need and playing defenders,” he said. “I’m at 100%. I’m ready for what the coach wants. I just have to continue to rest and take care of myself.”Yamal came agonizingly close to scoring on a number of occasions, with Austria captain David Alaba clearing one effort off the line before goalkeeper Alexander Schlager saved it from close range after Alex Baena’s free-kick hit the crossbar.
Spain marches on with another dominant performance
Spain’s win was built on another complete team game.Mikel Oyarzabal struck twice while Pedro Porro scored his first international goal as the European champions comfortably beat Austria to book a round of 16 clash with Portugal next Cristiano Ronaldodramatic victory of our team over Croatia.La Roja have now reached the knockout round without conceding a single goal in the tournament.Goalkeeper Unai Simon also made history, extending his World Cup shutout streak to 519 minutes, surpassing Italy legend Walter Zenga’s long-standing record of 517 minutes set at the 1990 World Cup.
