Spain just did something no national team has managed in 68 years. In their 2026 FIFA World Cup semi-final, the Spanish squad fielded two teenagers in the starting lineup, a feat not seen since Pelé and José Altafini lined up for Brazil in 1958.
The kids are alright
Lamine Yamal and Pau Cubarsí, both still teenagers, have become the youngest starting duo in a World Cup knockout game in the tournament’s history. Spain’s path to this stage ran through a quarter-final victory over Belgium, their first appearance in a World Cup semi-final since they lifted the trophy in 2010.
Yamal, who recently turned 19, has already racked up a record six World Cup appearances as a player aged 18 or younger.
The semi-final pits Spain against France, meaning Yamal and Cubarsí will share a pitch with Kylian Mbappé.
