Lamine Yamal breaks Kylian Mbappe’s record as Spain storm into FIFA World Cup round of 16

Spain’s Lamine Yamal gestures during the match against Austria in Inglewood. (AP photo) Spanish sensation Lamine Yamal has added another notable milestone to his fast-growing career after becoming the youngest European player ever to record 10 wins at major international tournaments, surpassing the record previously held by France captain Kylian Mbappe.The 18-year-old scored in Spain’s commanding 3-0 victory over Austria in the round of 32 at the FIFA World Cup, helping La Roja progress to the round of 16 while continuing his dream debut at football’s biggest tournament. At 18 years and 354 days, Yamal became the youngest European player to finish on the winning side in 10 games across major tournaments, beating Mbappe’s previous record by an astonishing five years. The French superstar reached the milestone at 23 years and 355 days, highlighting the extraordinary pace of Yamal’s rise.Despite being denied a goal against Austria, the Barcelona winger once again proved to be Spain’s most dangerous attacking force.

Yamal breaks Mbappe’s milestone despite injury setback

Yamal entered the World Cup under a fitness cloud after injuring his hamstring playing for Barcelona two months ago.His recovery has been gradual, but the teenager is now beginning to resemble the electrifying winger who has taken European football by storm.Against Austria, Yamal had six attempts on goal and constantly troubled the opposition defence, earning him Man of the Match honors despite failing to get on the scoresheet.“I didn’t get a goal, but I’m very happy that we advanced to the next round,” Yamal said after the win.The youngster also revealed that he finally feels back to full fitness.“Little by little I’m starting to feel like myself again, making the runs and dribbles that I need to and going after defenders,” he said. “I’m 100%. I’m ready for what coach wants. I just need to keep resting and taking care of myself.”Yamal came agonizingly close to scoring on several occasions, with Austria captain David Alaba clearing one effort off the line, while goalkeeper Alexander Schlager kept it out from close range after Alex Baena’s free-kick hit the crossbar.

Spain march on with another dominant display

Spain’s victory was built on another complete team performance.Mikel Oyarzabal struck twice while Pedro Porro scored his first international goal as the European champions comfortably overcame Austria to book a round of 16 tie with Portugal after Cristiano Ronaldo’s dramatic win over Croatia.La Roja have now entered the knockout stages without conceding a single goal in the tournament.Goalkeeper Unai Simon also made history as he extended his World Cup shutout streak to 519 minutes, surpassing Italian legend Walter Zenga’s long-standing record of 517 minutes at the 1990 World Cup.