Spain have received a major lift ahead of their World Cup 2026 opener against Cape Verde, with teenage sensation Lamine Yamal declared fit and available for selection.
The 18-year-old had been a serious concern for La Roja after suffering a hamstring injury while playing for Barcelona against Celta Vigo on April 22. At one stage, there were fears that one of Spain’s brightest attacking talents could miss the tournament altogether. But those worries have now eased at the perfect time.
Speaking before the Cape Verde clash, head coach Luis de la Fuente delivered the update Spanish fans had been waiting for. He confirmed that Yamal is in excellent condition and has reached the level of fitness the coaching staff wanted to see. The youngster also completed Spain’s latest training session, further calming doubts over his recovery.
Yamal is not the only positive news for Spain. Nico Williams and Victor Muñoz have also returned to normal training and are expected to be available, giving De la Fuente more attacking options for the opening match.
However, Spain are likely to manage Yamal carefully. Although the medical team has cleared him to play, De la Fuente suggested he may not be ready for a full 90 minutes. That means the Barcelona winger could be used as an impact substitute rather than thrown straight into the starting line-up.
Even so, his return is a huge psychological boost. Yamal’s pace, creativity and confidence make him one of the most exciting young players at this World Cup. Spain enter the tournament with serious ambitions of winning the trophy for the second time in their history, and having Yamal available only strengthens that belief.
Cape Verde, appearing at their first World Cup, will be desperate to spring a surprise. But Spain now head into the match with renewed confidence — and one of football’s brightest young stars ready to make his mark.
