(Football News) Lamine Yamal played a pivotal role as Barcelona rallied to secure an exhilarating 4-3 victory over Villarreal in the Spanish league on Sunday.
The 16-year-old forward orchestrated Gavi Páez’s opening goal for Barcelona, hitting the crossbar twice and significantly contributing to Robert Lewandowski’s winning goal in an enthralling match that ultimately favored the visitors.
Coach Xavi Hernández praised Yamal’s performance, stating, “Lamine had another outstanding game. He provided significant assistance, created numerous opportunities, and contributed two assists. Although I had initial concerns, we have complete faith in our young players and hold strong belief in the capabilities of our La Masia training academy.”
Having captured Xavi’s attention through his performances for the club’s youth teams, Yamal made history in April when he became the youngest player to appear for Barcelona at the age of 15 years, 9 months, and 16 days. Last weekend, he further solidified his status by becoming the youngest player to start for Barcelona in their victory over Cadiz.
Reflecting on his performance against Villarreal, Yamal shared his perspective, saying, “Thankfully, I manage to keep my nerves in check and simply enjoy playing the sport I love. I’m striving to make the most of the opportunities granted to me by our coach.” In Sunday’s match, Yamal delivered a precise cross to Gavi, who expertly headed home at the far post to initiate the scoring in the 12th minute. Three minutes later, Frenkie de Jong doubled the lead for Barcelona.
Villarreal mounted a spirited comeback. Juan Foyth headed in a corner kick from Álex Baena in the 26th minute. Alexander Sorloth capitalized on a pass from Alfonso Pedraza to score in the 40th minute, and Baena’s well-placed shot from Pedraza’s assist put the hosts ahead 3-2 in the 50th minute.
Despite the setback, Yamal played a significant role in helping Barcelona regroup and secure the win, maintaining their position just two points behind league leaders Real Madrid. Yamal came close to scoring in the 57th minute, hitting the post with his shot.
Substitute Ferran Torres equalized for Barcelona by netting the rebound from his own shot. Following this, Yamal impressively dribbled past his marker and unleashed a low shot, which was parried off the post by goalkeeper Filip Jorgensen. The rebound fell perfectly for Lewandowski to slot in his first goal of the season.
Yamal received applause from the crowd at Villarreal’s stadium, not only from Barcelona’s traveling fans but also from the home supporters, as he was substituted in the latter stages of the game.
Xavi commented on the intense match, stating, “It was a thrilling game, and part of that excitement was our own doing. However, once we fell behind 3-2, we performed at our best and created numerous scoring opportunities. I believe we could have even scored more goals.”
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