Reigning European Champions Under Pressure: Injured Gem Tipped to Rescue Them After Unexpected Slip-Up

“We are seeing the real Lamine Yamal, at his very best. Playing time is just a number – 55, 58, or 63 minutes, we’ll see how much he gets,” de la Fuente stated at Saturday’s pre-match press conference.

Yamal has been bothered by a thigh muscle injury in his left leg, which limited him to a substitute appearance in the opening match of the tournament against Cape Verde (0-0). After that game, he admitted he didn't feel fit enough to play a full ninety minutes.

After their stumble against Cape Verde, Spain needs a full three points against Saudi Arabia.

“We have to win. We’re not nervous, we have no worries. Yes, it shook us up a bit, but perhaps that’s exactly what will motivate us,” the reigning European champions’ coach was quoted by DPA.

Following their match in Atlanta against Saudi Arabia, “La Furia Roja” will face Uruguay in a group stage blockbuster in Guadalajara (June 27, 2:00 AM CEST).