Yamal scored a wonder goal in Spain’s 2-1 win over France by curling a fine effort beyond Mike Maignan, striking it in off the far post. He has now surpassed Brazil’s Pele as the youngest goalscorer at a major tournament (World Cup/EURO) at 16 years and 362 days of age.
Not only was the goal crucial in equalizing against France, it also proved to be a sweet revenge for one of his doubters – France’s Adrien Rabiot.
Prior to the game, the French midfielder commented on Yamal: "Obviously it could be difficult for him to deal with a semifinal in a big tournament," Rabiot said. "It's up to us to put pressure on him and to take him out of his comfort zone. And to reach a final at the Euros, he needs to do more than he's done up until now."
Yamal seemed to take note of his comments and posted an Instagram story before the game saying: "Move in silence, only speak when it's time to say checkmate." Appearing to respond to Rabiot’s comments.
To prove his point further, Rabiot was the player man marking Yamal right before his goal.
After Spain eliminated France, he exclaimed to the camera: “Speak now! Speak now!”. A fitting response to his doubters by the Man of the Match.
Yamal will turn 17 on Saturday, the day before the final where Spain will face either England or Netherlands.
