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Lamine Yamal received widespread acclaim after playing a pivotal role in Spain’s 1-0 victory over Argentina in the World Cup final after extra time. The 19-year-old delivered another composed performance on football’s grandest stage, prompting former England goalkeeper Joe Hart to declare that the Barcelona winger had “completed football” after adding a World Cup winner’s medal to his earlier European Championship triumph.

A symbolic moment unfolded at the New York New Jersey Stadium as Yamal embraced a tearful Lionel Messi following the final whistle. The image captured what many saw as a passing of the torch — from the 39-year-old Argentine legend to the 19-year-old Spanish prodigy. Wearing Barcelona’s iconic number 10 shirt for his club, Yamal offered words of comfort to Messi, the very player who had long embodied that number.

Spain’s 1-0 win, secured by Ferran Torres in the 106th minute, ensured Yamal’s place in history as the youngest player ever to win both the European Championship and the World Cup. At just 19 years and six days old, he has achieved what many greats never manage in their entire careers.

Former England goalkeeper Joe Hart highlighted Yamal’s maturity under pressure, noting how the teenager remained composed despite Argentina’s relentless attempts to unsettle him. Speaking on BBC Sport, Hart said: “Not only did Lamine Yamal not react. He stood up to it. He was not rattled and he did not back down. He had the entire team trying to smash him. He just stayed real cool. It was a real standout performance from him. Lamine Yamal is 19 years old. What a beautiful day for him. He’s 19 and has completed football.”

Spain head coach Luis de la Fuente also applauded Yamal’s contribution, saying: “He has played great football that will help him to mature and be an even greater footballer than he already is. He really sacrificed for the collective good. This is very important in my squad. In my opinion, he played a great World Cup.”

Despite initial concerns over a hamstring injury, Yamal started seven of Spain’s eight matches at the 2026 World Cup and won them all. Though the injury slightly curtailed his attacking output—he finished the tournament with just one goal—his steady performances and tactical discipline were instrumental in Spain’s flawless campaign. His quieter showing saw teammate Pau Cubarsi edge him out for the FIFA Young Player award.

Nevertheless, Yamal’s impact on Spain’s historic success was undeniable. Combined with his six starts at Euro 2024, he has now won all 13 of his major tournament starts—a record perfect streak for any European player in major tournament history. His ability to blend flair with defensive discipline and tactical intelligence has made him the crown jewel of Spain’s resurgence at the top of world football.

Yamal now returns to club duty with Barcelona, further cementing his reputation as one of the sport’s most promising young talents. Having already claimed both the European Championship and World Cup titles at just 19, he stands as a symbol of Spain’s new golden generation. With Luis de la Fuente’s continued faith in his abilities, Yamal looks set to remain central to Spain’s ambitions as the reigning world champions look to build on their latest triumph.