Spanish sensation Lamine Yamal has added another remarkable milestone to his fast-growing career after becoming the youngest European player ever to record 10 wins at major international tournaments, eclipsing a record previously held by the France captain. Kylian Mbappe.The 18-year-old completed the feat in Spain’s 3-0 win over Austria in the FIFA World Cup Round of 32, helping La Roja advance to the Round of 16 as he continues his 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 in 10 games at major tournaments, beating Mbappe’s previous record by a staggering five years. The French superstar reached the milestone at 23 years and 355 days, highlighting the extraordinary pace of Yamal’s rise.Although he was denied a goal against Austria, the Barcelona winger proved once again to be Spain’s most dangerous attacking point.
Yamal breaks Mbappe’s landmark despite injury setback
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 look like the electrifying winger who took European football by storm.Against Austria, Yamal produced six attempts on goal and constantly disturbed the opposition’s defense, earning the Player of the Match award despite not getting on the match.“I don’t have a goal, but I’m very happy that we made it to the next round,” Yamal said after the win.The youngster also revealed that he feels he is finally back in full physical shape.“Little by little, I started to feel like myself again, making the runs and dribbles that I need and taking on defenders,” he said. “I’m at 100%. I’m ready for what the coach wants. I just need to continue to rest and take care of myself.”Yamal came agonizingly close to scoring on several occasions, with Austria captain David Alaba clearing an effort off the line, while goalkeeper Alexander Schlager denied him from close range after Alex Baena’s free-kick hit the crossbar.
Spain marched off with another dominant display
Spain’s victory was built on another comprehensive team performance.Mikel Oyarzabal struck twice, while Pedro Porro scored his first international goal as the European champions comfortably beat Austria to book a last-16 clash with Portugal next. Cristiano RonaldoThe dramatic victory of the Croatian team.La Roja have now reached the knockout rounds without conceding a single goal in the tournament.Goalkeeper Unai Simon also entered the history books, extending his World Cup streak to 519 minutes, surpassing Italian legend Walter Zenga’s long-standing record of 517 minutes set at the 1990 World Cup.
