Spain's Cubarsi Eyes World Cup Clash, Names Dembélé Toughest Threat

Nineteen-year-old Spanish center-back Pau Cubarsi has declared he does not fear facing Kylian Mbappé in the World Cup semifinals, despite the French star's formidable reputation. Spain is set to meet France in a highly anticipated clash.

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Everyone knows he is very strong, and even if he doesn't do much throughout the game, he can change the game in an instant. He is a unique player, just like Lamine Yamal; you have to be alert for 90 minutes.

Cubarsi, a standout player for Barcelona, has impressed with his composed defense and ball-playing ability throughout the tournament. He and Aymeric Laporte lead all center-backs in recovering possession in the opponent's half. Cubarsi has also accumulated the most playing time for any player under 20 in World Cup history, surpassing Mbappé's previous record.

While acknowledging Mbappé's game-changing potential, Cubarsi highlighted Ousmane Dembélé as another significant threat. Having trained with Dembélé, Cubarsi noted his exceptional skill with both feet, making him difficult to defend against. He also commented on the excellent form and focus of his young teammate Lamine Yamal, emphasizing Yamal's contributions to the team beyond scoring and assisting, such as his defensive work and ability to intimidate opposing full-backs with his dribbling.

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I have trained with him a few times, and you have to pay close attention to him because he is strong with both feet and can break through on either side.

Historically, Spain has had mixed results against Mbappé, who has scored six goals in their previous six encounters, although Barcelona has won five of those matches.

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His condition is very good, and he is very focused on what he needs to do, which is to help the team.