Yamal accompanied head coach De la Fuente to the pre-match press conference for the World Cup semi-final, where they will compete against France for a place in the final. He responded to criticism of his poor performance in the tournament.

Photo/Spanish Football Federation

De la Fuente said you will have your highlight moment in the World Cup, do you accept the challenge?

I'm not worried about scoring, but it's always special to score in a game like this. I accept the challenge, and tomorrow will be a special day.

After Belgium's knockout stage match, you said that if any team was afraid of Spain, it was France. Do you think your statement was misunderstood?

There was no misunderstanding. What I mean is, clearly we're not afraid of France. Like Conde said, it's just football. Interpret it as you see fit, that's all.

These kinds of games are where star players shine. What do you predict this game will be like? Are you nervous?

I'm calm. I made an appointment with my brother to cut my hair, that's all. For the fans, this will be a great game.

Do you feel more pressured?

No. I'll just play my own way and do my best in the game. As long as I do that, I won't feel any pressure.

If you could say something to your 10-year-old self tomorrow, what do you think you would say?

Be yourself and enjoy it all. Don't say too much before the game.

Was the necklace you're wearing a gift from someone?

No, I bought it myself (laughs)... It's a gift to myself.

What does it mean to be welcomed in the United States?

It's great. Football gave me the opportunity to be recognized by everyone, especially in a place like Chattanooga (where the Spanish training base is located), which is very important. I cherish the path I've taken and am proud of my achievements.

Ranked by importance, where does tomorrow's match rank?

First. This is the most important match, and I'm very happy to be here.

Do you think Spain will be the champion?

Of course. Winning is difficult, as it is for all world champions, but we all believe we can be champions, so why can't we?

Your stats aren't ideal; you haven't had any assists yet.

Every competition is different. I don't think it's the coach's fault that I haven't scored 5 goals; I'm not worried, we're on a winning streak. I watched Spain get eliminated from the World Cup, and for me, the most important thing is that we keep going.

What's the most touching message you've ever received? What gift would you most like to give yourself?

I haven't met my family yet... but if I were to give myself a gift, I would choose a victory and a trip to New York (to play in the final).

Do you feel that without Nico, the burden of one-on-one combat has fallen entirely on your shoulders?

The match will have several stages; it won't always be one-on-one. We have many skills. I don't think France's attacking prowess will necessarily be a disadvantage for us; it might even be a good thing.

Does your brother Keyne know how famous he is?

I don't know. He'll probably be very happy when he grows up. I'm glad everyone likes him as much as I do. I watch it every time the camera is on him; I find it quite amusing.

Why are you always so confident when you play football?

I've said it many times: there are many things in life that are much harder than football. I'm calm; I know my abilities, and I won't push myself too hard.

Will I be affected by stress tomorrow?

We've matured a lot. We've been through tough times, like when we played Cape Verde and Belgium. I believe tomorrow will be a special day. You yourselves have said I'm not at my best, so there's nothing particularly noteworthy to watch.