Lamine Yamal Rewrites Football History as Spain’s World Cup Victory Completes Historic Double
Lamine Yamal has added another remarkable achievement to his rapidly growing legacy after helping Spain lift the 2026 FIFA World Cup, becoming the youngest footballer in history to win both the UEFA European Championship and the World Cup.
Spain’s victory over Argentina in the final crowned the Barcelona star as a world champion at just 19 years and six days old, setting a new benchmark in international football. The teenager eclipsed every previous record by completing football’s biggest international double before reaching his 20th birthday.
From European champion to world champion
Yamal’s rise has been nothing short of extraordinary.
He first captured global attention during UEFA Euro 2024, where he inspired Spain to the continental title. Despite being only 17, he walked away with the Best Young Player award, scored the tournament’s Goal of the Tournament with a stunning strike against France in the semi-finals, and earned a place in the Team of the Tournament.
Two years later, he has added an even bigger prize to his collection.
During the World Cup in the United States, Mexico and Canada, the Spanish winger played a vital role throughout the tournament. Although he scored once, his influence extended far beyond goals, with his pace, dribbling and creativity causing constant problems for opposition defences.
Remarkably, Yamal has won both the European Championship and the World Cup on his first attempt, maintaining a perfect record in major senior international tournaments.
Among the youngest players to grace a World Cup final
The final against Argentina also saw Yamal secure another place in football history.
According to Barcelona, he became the third-youngest player ever to feature in a FIFA World Cup final, trailing only Brazilian legend Pelé, who played in the 1958 final at 17, and Italy’s Giuseppe Bergomi, who appeared in the 1982 final at 18.
Spain teammate Pau Cubarsí also joined the elite list, becoming the fourth-youngest player to appear in a World Cup final after overtaking France star Kylian Mbappé.
Spain coach praises teenage star
Spain coach Luis de la Fuente hailed Yamal’s performances throughout the tournament, highlighting not only his talent but also his commitment to the team.
“He has played great football that will help him to mature and be an even greater footballer than he already is.
“He really sacrificed for the collective good. This is very important in my squad. In my opinion he played a great World Cup,” De la Fuente said.