Lamine Yamal Boost for Spain Ahead of FIFA World Cup

Lamine Yamal (AP Photo)

Spain have received a major boost ahead of the FIFA World Cup, with coach Luis de la Fuente expressing confidence that teenage star Lamine Yamal will be fit for the team's opening match against Cape Verde on June 15.

Yamal, who suffered a left hamstring injury while playing for Barcelona in April, will not feature in Spain's warm-up match against Iraq.

However, the coaching staff remains optimistic about his recovery and availability for the tournament opener in Atlanta.

De la Fuente said the 18-year-old is progressing well and could be ready in time for Spain's first World Cup fixture.

“If nothing changes, he could be ready to play on June 15,” De la Fuente said.

“It doesn't mean that for sure he will play, we'll see. Maybe a few minutes, maybe just practice so he can improve his condition for the second match. We will have to evaluate.”

Yamal recently admitted he feared missing the World Cup after picking up the injury and was relieved to see his recovery moving in the right direction.

The Barcelona youngster is expected to be one of Spain's key players as the team aims to challenge for the title.

Spain will also be without Nico Williams and Víctor Muñoz for the warm-up game as they continue recovering from injuries.

Players who were involved in the recent Champions League final will also be rested.

The Spanish side will play one more preparation match against Peru in Mexico before heading into the World Cup.

De la Fuente did not reveal which players would feature in that game.

Spain begin their Group H campaign against Cape Verde before facing Saudi Arabia and Uruguay in their remaining group-stage fixtures.

The 2010 world champions have not progressed beyond the Round of 16 since lifting the trophy and will be hoping to change that record this summer.

“We are all excited to get started and try to do well at the tournament,” De la Fuente said.