By Abigail David
Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente has named teenage star Lamine Yamal among the substitutes for La Roja’s opening match of the 2026 FIFA World Cup against debutants Cape Verde on Monday.
The decision means the 18-year-old Barcelona forward will not start the Group H encounter at the Mercedes-Benz Stadium in Atlanta, despite being declared fit ahead of the tournament opener.
Speaking before the match, De la Fuente assured reporters that Yamal had fully recovered from his recent injury setback, saying, “Lamine Yamal is in perfect condition.”
The decision to leave the youngster on the bench has sparked mixed reactions among football fans, with many viewing it as a cautious approach to managing his fitness during the competition.
Several supporters on social media backed the move, arguing that introducing Yamal later in the game could give Spain a significant advantage against tiring opponents while reducing the risk of aggravating his injury.
Spain enters the World Cup as one of the favourites after its UEFA Euro 2024 triumph, with Yamal emerging as one of the team’s brightest talents thanks to his pace, creativity and attacking flair.
Cape Verde, making its first-ever World Cup appearance, faces a difficult test against the European giants, who boast considerable squad depth even without Yamal in the starting lineup.
Attention will now turn to whether the young forward can make an impact off the bench as Spain begins its quest for World Cup glory.
