Yamal counters Van der Vaart: put down his pants and celebrate a goal in Spain!

Yamal counters Van der Vaart: put down his pants and celebrate a goal in Spain!

After the thrilling quarter-final first leg of the UEFA Nations League between the Netherlands and Spain, Lamine Yamal reacted sharply to Rafael van der Vaart's criticism in an Instagram post. Van der Vaart had accused Yamal of “pulling his pants down too far” and not contributing enough to the game. These comments came after the first game, which ended in a 2-2 draw, and caused excitement in the football world. Yamal, who scored Spain's significant third goal in the second leg, celebrated his goal with his trousers pulled down, which was interpreted as a direct response to Van der Vaart's criticism. In his Instagram message he commented: "Pants down, a goal, missed a penalty and in the semi-finals. Hehehe. Let's go Spain!"

In the second leg, which took place at the Mestalla Stadium in Valencia, the game ended 3-3 and the decision was decided on penalties, where Spain ultimately won. While Yamal missed a penalty in the crucial phase, his contribution to the game and the coolness that came with it were highlighted. Teammate Pedri noted that Yamal will learn from this experience. Unai Simón saved a penalty from Donyell Malen and Pedri scored the decisive penalty for Spain's victory.

The path to the semi-finals

With the win, Spain qualified for the semi-finals, where they will face France in June. Yamal, who despite his young age has already played important games for the Spanish national team, has made a name for himself in a very short time. His performances and demeanor on the pitch show that he has remarkable calm and ability. The 17-year-old will continue to be a focus, especially given FC Barcelona's current form, where he plays a key role alongside players like Pedri.

Barcelona will be heavily challenged as they sit level with Real Madrid at the top of LaLiga and are aiming for a crucial win against Osasuna. Players such as Ronald Araújo and Raphinha could be missing due to World Cup qualifiers in South America, while other international players are expected back in time for the game.

Criticism of youth football

Meanwhile, another debate is emerging in the German football landscape, which revolves around children's and youth football. Hans-Joachim Watzke, DFB Vice President, has sharply criticized the planned reform, which aims to introduce new forms of play in age groups from U6 to U11 from 2024. Watzke described the reform as a “fundamentally wrong approach” and is committed to maintaining the usual competitive structure that teaches children how to lose and win. Sports psychologist Frauke Wilhelm, on the other hand, supports the reform because she argues that children can be motivated to enjoy exercise even without pressure and tables.

The discussion about youth football in Germany contrasts with developments in international football, where young talents like Yamal are increasingly in the spotlight. While the talent of young players is being promoted in Spain and other European countries, it remains to be seen how the reform and discussions surrounding youth football will develop in Germany.