Lamine Yamal, Spain's 16-year-old sensation, has been lighting up Euro 2024 and recently matched a record set by Cristiano Ronaldo in 2004. In Spain's 4-1 victory over Georgia in the last-16, Yamal's performance was pivotal.
Spain faced an early setback when Robin Le Normand's own goal gave Georgia the lead. However, Rodri's stunning long-range strike brought Spain level by halftime. The second half saw Spain dominate, with Yamal delivering a spectacular curling cross to Fabian Ruiz, who scored with ease. This assist made Yamal the first teenager since Ronaldo to assist multiple goals (two) in a single European Championship.
Yamal's performance also saw him join Zinedine Zidane in an elite statistical category. He became the only player besides the French legend to create more than five chances and take more than five shots in a European Championship game. In 2004, Zidane created six chances and took six shots in a 2-1 victory over England. Yamal, against Georgia, took seven shots and created six chances.
Despite his young age, Yamal has become a crucial asset for both Barcelona and Spain, showcasing his undeniable talent. This season, he has played 50 matches, contributing 17 goals for club and country.As Spain prepares to face Germany in the quarter-finals on July 5, Yamal is expected to be a key starter for Luis de la Fuente's team.