Portugal captain Cristiano Ronaldo has hailed Spain's Lamine Yamal ahead of the Nations League final between the two nations.
Ahead of Portugal’s UEFA Nations League final clash with Spain, Cristiano Ronaldo has praised Barcelona’s teenage sensation Lamine Yamal.
The 17-year-old has rapidly established himself as one of the world’s top talents and will face off against one of football’s all-time greats in tomorrow’s final.
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08:48 - 07.06.2025
17-year-old Yamal deserves to win the Ballon d'Or — Spain boss De la Fuente
Spain boss Luis de la Fuente says Lamine Yamal deserves to win the Ballon d’Or after seeing the teenager put on another masterclass against France in the Nations League semi-final.
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08:45 - 05.06.2025
Where is Messi? Ronaldo breaks another record as Portugal reach Nations League final
Cristiano Ronaldo scored the winner as Portugal defeated Germany 2-1 to reach the final of the UEFA Nations League.
Ronaldo, speaking to the media, lauded the young Barcelona and Spain winger, emphasizing his immense potential.
“Lamine Yamal is doing very well, taking advantage of his talent. Let the kid grow,” the Real Madrid icon said, as quoted by Fabrizio Romano.
“Don’t put too much pressure on him. Let him be and grow well, take the pressure off. He has no shortage of talent,” the Portugal captain added.
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This isn’t the first time Ronaldo has spoken highly of Yamal, having previously tipped the Barcelona academy star as a future Ballon d’Or contender.
Yamal shone brightly in Spain’s thrilling 5-4 semi-final victory over France earlier this week, netting two goals.
Now, he will look to deliver another standout performance in the final against Portugal, potentially leading La Roja to the Nations League title and bolstering his Ballon d’Or prospects.