Yamal Sets Record for Most World Cup Appearances Before 19

Spanish teenage sensation Lamine Yamal set a new FIFA World Cup record for appearances by a player before turning 19, achieving the milestone during his team's 2-1 quarterfinal victory over Belgium in Los Angeles on Friday, July 10. The win secured Spain a place in the semifinals, where they will face France.

The 18-year-old winger made his sixth tournament appearance in the match, surpassing the previous record of five matches held by Northern Ireland's Norman Whiteside since 1982. Yamal's achievement adds to a historic tournament for the player, who earlier became the second-youngest scorer in World Cup history with a goal against Saudi Arabia in the group stage.

Despite not registering a goal or an assist in the quarterfinal, Yamal's performance was pivotal, earning him the Player of the Match award. He consistently pressured Belgium's defense, recording a match-high 12 touches inside the opposition penalty area and six shot attempts. He also became the first player at this World Cup to complete 20 successful dribbles, underlining his influence beyond direct goal contributions.

The match itself was a tense affair decided by a late error. Spain took the lead in the 30th minute...