World Cup 2026: Yamal reacts to facing Ronaldo’s Portugal in Round of 16

Spain winger Lamine Yamal has said it would be a privilege to come up against Cristiano Ronaldo as Spain prepare for their FIFA World Cup Round of 16 encounter with Portugal.

Yamal made the comments after playing a key role in Spain’s victory over Austria in Thursday’s Round of 32 fixture, which secured their place in the last 16.

Following Portugal’s 2-1 win over Croatia to set up a clash with Spain, the 18-year-old expressed excitement about the contest but stressed that his main focus is helping his side advance to the next stage.

“Well, I don’t really care – Croatia or Portugal,” Yamal said (via DAZN).

“It would be an honour, obviously, to play against Cristiano, but I am focused on winning the game, and I don’t really care who advances between the two of them.”

Spain will face Portugal on Monday in the Round of 16, with a quarter-final berth up for grabs. Portugal secured their qualification after overcoming Croatia 2-1 in the previous round.