Inter boss Simone Inzaghi hailed 17-year-old Lamine Yamal as a “once in a 50-year” talent after the teenager’s impressive performance against Barcelona. Yamal, who played in his 100th game for the club, caused chaos for the Inter defense with his pace, precision, and vision.
Despite Inter taking an early lead, Yamal took matters into his own hands, using his quick feet to evade defenders and create scoring opportunities. The 17-year-old’s footwork was compared to that of Lionel Messi-esque elasticity, precision, and vision, as he slalomed past players and threaded shots through crowded areas.
Inzaghi praised Yamal’s abilities, saying he had never seen a player like him in the last eight or nine years. Despite his team’s efforts to set up goals for their ungrateful teammates, Yamal continued to try and score on his own, often to no avail. However, his talent and determination left Barcelona fans and neutrals alike in awe.
Yamal’s performance was marked by several notable moments, including a 20-minute spell where he bombarded the Inter defense from all angles, a 24-minute goal that showcased his elusiveness and precision, and another shot that hit the bar but still had Inter scrambling to clear it. Despite these close calls, Yamal remained calm and composed, using his ballet-like movements to outmaneuver opponents.
As Yamal continues to develop his skills, fans are eagerly anticipating what he will achieve in the future. Will he become one of the greatest players to have kicked a football? Only time will tell, but for now, Lamine Yamal’s name is on everyone’s lips as a rising star in the world of football.
Source: https://www.nytimes.com/athletic/6326022/2025/05/01/yamal-barcelona-inter-champions-league