Spain forward Lamine Yamal insists his team will face France in their FIFA World Cup semi-final with complete belief, declaring that La Roja have no fear of the reigning world champions.

Spain booked their place in the last four with a tense 2-1 victory over Belgium in Dallas, sealed by Mikel Merino’s late winner after a high-tempo, physically demanding contest. The result extended Spain’s impressive run at the tournament and set up a heavyweight clash with a French side chasing a third consecutive World Cup final.

For Yamal, the narrative is simple: either France make more history, or Spain continue their growing dominance in the rivalry.

“There are two possibilities: either they reach three World Cup finals in a row, or we beat them three times. I don’t know what might happen, but we’re not afraid at all,” the 18-year-old said after the quarter-final win.

Spain have prevailed in their last two meetings with Les Bleus, and that recent record underpins the winger’s confidence. Yet Yamal stressed that the focus now is on preparation rather than reputation.

“I’m really happy with the win. Back in the semi-finals again. That’s what we came here for – to play these matches and win them. Now it’s time to rest and start thinking about the match against France.”

Named Superior Player of the Match against Belgium, Yamal once again showcased his blend of creativity, intelligence and work rate. But he was quick to downplay personal accolades, framing his role firmly within the collective effort.

“Obviously I wanted to score because it helps the team, but I don’t go out onto the pitch thinking about that. If I win the World Cup, I don’t think anyone’s going to remember how many goals I’ve scored or missed.”

“If we win, we’ll all be happy. If I win the player of the match award, all the better, but above all, I want the team to win.”

Yamal underlined that his influence often comes without a final touch on the ball, pointing to his movement as a key weapon in Spain’s attacking structure.

“I know that my runs draw in a lot of opponents and that I can leave a team-mate unmarked. Anything I can do to help – even if I don’t touch the ball in a move – will be a good thing.”

As for criticism of his goal tally, the teenager brushed it aside, reminding observers that Spain’s success, not his statistics, is the true measure.

“I think the whole goal business has got into everyone’s heads, and we won the European Championship with me scoring just one goal. I’ve already scored one this time. They can rest easy.”