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Yamal cleared to start, youngest debutant faces Cape Verde

6/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Yamal is cleared to start in the World Cup opener against Cape Verde after a hamstring injury.
Spain enters tournament as co-favorites with France while Cape Verde makes its first World Cup appearance as the third-smallest qualifier.
Yamal, who joined Barcelona’s La Masía at 7 and debuted at 15 years, 9 months, 16 days—the youngest in a century—was praised by coach Marc Serra for his early passing and Messi-like potential.

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Story summary

Yamal is cleared to start in the World Cup opener against Cape Verde after a hamstring injury.
Spain enters tournament as co-favorites with France while Cape Verde makes its first World Cup appearance as the third-smallest qualifier.
Yamal, who joined Barcelona’s La Masía at 7 and debuted at 15 years, 9 months, 16 days—the youngest in a century—was praised by coach Marc Serra for his early passing and Messi-like potential.