Spain vs. Argentina: Lamine Yamal could save statement performance in 2026 World Cup finals

Lamine Yamal is yet to make a statement on the performance of the 2026 World Cup.

By his incredibly high standards, the 19-year-old has been a bit of a disappointment at this summer’s tournament, with just one goal and one ‘assist’ in seven appearances for Spain, but his preparations for the competition have been far from perfect.

Indeed, Yamal entered the tournament after suffering a thigh injury that ended his 2025-26 campaign in April.

This young man from Barcelona stood out from the bench against Cape Verde in the opening game of the 2026 World Cup in Spain and scored a goal against Saudi Arabia in the second group game of this team.

Yamal has played five matches in Spain without scoring, although he did register an ‘assist’ against France by winning his team’s penalty which was knocked down by Mikel Oyarzabal.

Spain vs. Argentina: Yamal will be bidding to lead La Roja to 2026 World Cup finals

The striker is yet to shine in this summer’s competition, but he may be saving it for the biggest game of all.

Spain’s success at the 2026 World Cup is built on a defense that has only entered the tournament once.

La Roja will take the all-time record for defending World Cup wins if they don’t let Argentina go and get their own.

Unai Simon, Pedro Porro, Pau Cubarsi, Aymeric Laporte, Marc Cucurella, Rodri, Fabian Ruiz, Dani Olmo, Alex Baena and Mikel Oyarzabal have all been good this summer – the 10 are expected to start alongside Yamal in Spain on Sunday.

© Consport / Leo Barrilari/SPP

Spain has become the best ‘team’ for the 2026 World Cup

Currently, Pedri is no longer among the Spanish players, which is an indication of the level the European country has in that area.

Yamal’s impact in Spain is lasting, and that cannot be measured by goals and assists, with his presence creating space for the club’s players this summer.

Spain have plenty of quality throughout their side, but Yamal is a top talent, and they need him to be at his best to overcome a strong and tricky Argentina outfit.

© Consport / Aflo

2026 World Cup: Yamal is Spain’s top talent

The striker just turned 19 but has already represented La Roja 32 times, scoring seven goals and registering 13 assists.

Yamal actually scored just once at Euro 2024, despite notching four assists, as Spain went on to win the trophy, beating England in the final.

The youngster has just one goal for Spain since June 2025, which is remarkable, and has only netted once in nine appearances for his country this year.

Yamal may have 20 years ahead of him at the top level – just look at Lionel Messi – so he will have plenty of chances at the World Cup if Spain fail on Sunday.

There is a sense that Yamal is on the verge of producing a high-quality offensive game, however, and he may have saved it for the battle at MetLife Stadium.

Vote in the Sports Mole World Cup 2026 Student Awards!

Cast your votes for the 2026 World Cup awards; from tournament player and rising star, to leading striker and major disappointment.

Voting will be open until 11pm UK time on Monday, July 20, and the winners will be announced on Tuesday, July 21!

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