Yamal collapses, risking missing the 2026 World Cup

Lamine Yamal scores from a penalty but immediately falls due to injury, causing Barcelona and the Spanish national team to worry ahead of the decisive phase of the season.

Lamine Yamal made Barcelona fans "hold their breath" when he suffered a strange injury right after his shining moment in the 1-0 victory over Celta Vigo in La Liga.

In the 40th minute, the 18-year-old talent earned a penalty himself and calmly converted it successfully, putting Barcelona ahead. However, instead of celebrating, Yamal unexpectedly signaled to the bench and then collapsed onto the pitch, surprising both teammates and spectators.

The medical team quickly intervened, but after a few minutes of treatment, Yamal could only leave the field with a limping gait and a disappointed expression. He immediately headed straight into the tunnel, giving way to Roony Bardghji.

According toAS, the reigning Euro champion suffered a muscle tear that could affect his ability to participate in the 2026 World Cup. Yamal will be taken for examination today to assess the extent of the injury.

It is highly likely that the collision with defender Yoel Lago in the situation leading to the penalty was the cause of the young Spanish star's problem. This further raises concerns about his physical condition during the crucial phase of the season.

Not long after Yamal left the field, the match was interrupted for nearly 20 minutes due to a medical incident in the stands, making the atmosphere even more tense.

Yamal's injury is bad news for Barcelona as they still have many important matches ahead, including El Clasico against Real Madrid. Not only the Catalan club, Spanish national team coach Luis de la Fuente is certainly "restless," as the 2026 World Cup is approaching and Yamal is a key element in La Roja's plans.

Before the injury, Yamal was experiencing a breakout season with 24 goals and 18 assists in 45 appearances across all competitions—an impressive record for a player just 18 years old.