Cape Verde captain: Spain is stronger with Lamine Yamal

Ryan Mendes, captain of Cape Verde and Spain's first World Cup opponent, stated that the Spanish team is more formidable with young star Lamine Yamal on the field. Mendes acknowledged Yamal's impact, noting that Spain is "stronger with Lamine than without Lamine."

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Spain is stronger with Lamine than without Lamine.

However, Mendes stressed that regardless of who plays for Spain, they will pose a threat. His focus remains on his own team's strategy: "We have to concentrate on ourselves, take advantage of the spaces and the opportunities we can have." He added that while it might not be Yamal's World Cup, Spain possesses other talented players.

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But whoever plays tomorrow will cause problems for Cape Verde for sure. We have to concentrate on ourselves, take advantage of the spaces and the opportunities we can have.

Mendes anticipates a difficult match against one of the world's top teams. He expressed his team's determination to "have our day to try to get the best possible outcome." For Mendes and his squad, participating in the World Cup is a unique experience, and they are "proud to be here" to represent their country and bring joy to the people of Cape Verde.

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I don't know if it will be Lamine's World Cup, but there are other very good players in other national teams.

He highlighted the collective spirit of the Cape Verde team, emphasizing that their presence at the tournament is a result of "this collective spirit that unites us." Mendes cautioned against individualistic thinking, stating, "We must not make the mistake of thinking individually. We represent Cape Verde and its people. We have to concentrate on doing everything together, as always."

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We expect a difficult match against one of the best teams in the world. We have to have our day to try to get the best possible outcome.