Lamine Yamal 'made a statement' with stunning performance against France as Spain boss says Barcelona youngster 'deserves' the Ballon d'Or

Yamal delivered another standout performance for Spain as the European champions beat France 5-4 in the Nations League semi-final on Thursday. The 17-year-old Barcelona winger scored a brace, including a penalty in the 54th minute and another goal in the 67th minute, asserting his growing stature on the international stage.

Spain advanced to the final after an intense contest that featured goals from Nico Williams, Mikel Merino, Pedri, and Yamal, with La Roja surviving a late push by France to secure the win. Yamal's performance dominated the headlines, as he made more of an impression than Champions League winner and Ballon d'Or frontrunner Ousmane Dembele.

With 18 goals and 25 assists in 55 games across all competitions, the flashy winger has garnered praise from all around the globe, and De la Fuente is convinced he deserves to beat Dembele to the top individual prize.

"He's made a statement. He's the best player in the world and, of course, in my opinion, he deserves that Ballon d'Or," he told reporters after the game.

Spain will face Cristiano Ronaldo's Portugal in the Nations League final on Sunday. De la Fuente anticipates another high-paced game with both teams' attacking strength and star-studded squads. Yamal is expected to lead the attack, with eyes on whether he can continue his decisive form and further stake a claim in the Ballon d'Or conversation.