Spain have faced some criticism for their performances in North America, but Yamal believes the real tournament begins now. He argues that results are more important than aesthetics at this stage, though he remains confident that the team’s level of play will naturally rise as the stakes increase throughout the knockout rounds.
“People are saying we can play better, but we’re focused on staying calm, winning first, and then we’ll improve,” Yamal noted. “We can improve, we are much better than the level we are showing, but I want to win. You have to go out and play well and win. We have to have faith. The group stage doesn’t mean anything now.”
La Roja will look to find that higher gear when they face Austria in the Round of 32. Should they progress, a potential semi-final meeting against France looms on the cards, where Yamal’s bold words may yet be put to the ultimate test.
