Lamine Yamal opens the net posts controversial message after Spain win

The young Spanish forward Lamine Yamal, wearing jersey number 19, opened the scoring for Spain within the first two minutes of the UEFA Nations League match, League A – Group 3, against England at Wembley Stadium in London on September 26, 2026. The goal gave La Roja the early lead and set the tone of the game.

Social media reaction

After the victory, Yamal posted on Instagram a series of photos accompanied by the text: “Hate me or love me, I don’t care”. The post appears to respond to recent criticism about his statements that he deserves to win the Ballon d'Or. The phrase quickly spread among fans and media.

Coaching staff statements

Head coach Luis de la Fuentes commented after Spain’s 3‑2 win, when asked if Yamal dribbled less. “I don’t know what they ask of him in Barcelona,” he told the journalists. “We try to get the best out of him with our style, similar to Barça’s but different. His performance is exceptional; we are fortunate to have him. He plays as the game demands, using his strengths and those of his teammates.”

Spain clinches victory at Wembley thanks to Yamal and Kane

The visual message of the match was also recorded by the AFP agency via Getty Images, under the caption “/ NOT FOR MARKETING OR ADVERTISING USE / RESTRICTED TO EDITORIAL USE | AFP via Getty Images”.

On Saturday, the day the match was played, the crowd at Wembley celebrated Yamal’s early goal, which became the starting point of a victory that solidified Spain’s position in the group.

Spain remain unbeaten after Kane's missed penalty at Wembley

With the win, Spain maintains its position in League A of the Nations League, while England will need to respond in the upcoming Group 3 matches.