Raum wary of brilliant Yamal ahead of Germany-Spain showdown at Euro 2024

Germany full-back David Raum hailed Lamine Yamal’s “brutal quality” following another brilliant display from the 16-year-old Spain winger last night.

Yamal played the full 90 minutes as Spain cruised into the quarter-finals with a 4-1 defeat of Georgia in Cologne, creating the second goal with a pin-point cross for Fabian Ruiz to head home. 

The Barcelona teenager has been one of the stand-out performers at the tournament – despite his tender years – and Raum, who will be in direct opposition on Germany’s left flank when the sides meet in the last eight on Friday evening, is a big fan.

The RB Leipzig defender said: “When you see what Yamal brings to football, age becomes no issue. 

“The lad plays in the first team at Barcelona and also in the national team so there is no point talking about him as a kid.

“He has brutal quality and we will have to find a way to defend against him.”

Has tenido ocasiones, has dado una asistencia y sabes que lo mejor está por venir.

😆 Pues normal que tengas esta cara, Lamine.#VamosEspaña | #EURO2024 pic.twitter.com/i1HC1cfDEK

— Selección Española Masculina de Fútbol (@SEFutbol) June 30, 2024

Spain are the only side in the competition with a 100 per cent record with coach Luis de la Fuente moulding an exciting team that will take some stopping.

On the opposite flank to Yamal is Athletic Bilbao speedster Nico Williams, who scored a fine goal against Georgia.

Raum added: “I think they are two top players, but not just those two. The whole Spanish team is very well equipped. They are never really predictable and one has to find a way to stop the whole Spanish team.”

Germany advanced to the quarter-finals after beating Denmark 2-0 – their first knockout victory at a major tournament since Euro 2016.